What do you picture when you imagine the kingdom of God? Here at the turning point of Jesus’ life he turns toward Jerusalem where he will suffer, be killed and rise again. Up to this point he has been preaching, teaching and healing. Jesus has shown the disciples what the coming kingdom looks like, but it won’t come about without those “who have” denying themselves so that those “who don’t have” can share in God’s abundance.
God has created the world with enough resources for everyone but not if everyone lives like we do in North America. The lives we are currently living not only rob others, but are also unsustainable in the long term.
What are you prepared to give up so that the kingdom of God can arrive for everyone? How will you take up your cross to follow Jesus? What are you willing to deny yourself so that future generations can be blessed?
God of abundance, you have blessed us with many gifts. Help us see that those gifts are meant to be shared so that all might be blessed. Free us from hoarding and stockpiling so that kingdom living can be experienced by everyone. Amen. — SWH