1ST WEEK OF ADVENT

The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.

The Jews who heard this proclamation must have been startled. Where was this kingdom, and who was in charge? They were looking for a human ruler who would resolve the very real problems they were facing: poverty, illness, injustice, and oppression. And yet, two thousand years later, we still see those same problems in the world.

But God doesn’t lie. Jesus announced that the kingdom is at hand, and so it is. We just need the eyes to see it. Like the Israelites, when we hear the word “kingdom,” we naturally picture earthly domains ruled by powerful leaders. In its fullness, though, the kingdom of heaven is a matter of love because Love Itself reigns over God’s kingdom.

So how do we, who are citizens of the kingdom, reveal this kingdom to the people around us? By imitating Jesus, the One whose love rules his kingdom. By following the example of Jesus, whose heart is moved with compassion (Matthew 9:36). Throughout his ministry, Jesus met the needs of the people he encountered with generosity, kindness, and gentleness. Think of the leper who came to him for healing or the woman caught in adultery whom he refused to condemn (Luke 5:12-13; John 8:1-11). If we want to advance God’s kingdom, we need to ask for the grace to love as Jesus did.

Do you know someone who could use a sympathetic ear or words of encouragement? It may even be someone in your family! Look around to see if anyone needs consolation or prayer for healing or even a pot of homemade soup. Or perhaps God is calling to you to become more active in serving the poor or advocating for them.

You are an emissary of the King of heaven. God is counting on you to make his kingdom not just a lovely idea but one that is real and visible. That means a kingdom filled with citizens who respond generously and compassionately to the needs around them.

“Jesus, help me to advance your kingdom wherever I go today.”

Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5-8
Isaiah 30:19-21, 23-26
Psalm 147:1-6

WORD AMONG US