I’m often asked, “Where are you from?” Depending on the context, I’m careful how I answer. Do they want to know what city I was born in? Calgary. Do they want to know what neighbourhood I grew up in? NE Calgary (a neighborhood often referred to as “the hood” because of its affordability, but also its predominantly new immigrant population, especially refugees). Do they want to know what neighbourhood I live in now? The same one I grew up in. Are they wondering what country I was born in? Canada. Or are they wanting to know what ethnicity I am? Japanese descent. I’m never sure why people ask. Are they genuinely curious? Do they want to see how much money I make? How much money I came from? Do they want to speak Japanese with me? Get to know me?
Paul says that our citizenship is in heaven. I wonder how people would react to “I’m from heaven!” It’s a reminder of where we belong and to whom. More than the Canadian flag or the black straight hair that I may outwardly show, how does my life reflect the place I hold citizenship?
Ever-welcoming and embracing God, may your kingdom come. Help us to live out of citizenship in heaven day to day. May you remind us always of where and to whom we belong. Amen. — MP