For Such a Time as This: Creating Heaven on Earth
Our first stop on our Lenten journey was “Choose Wisely.” We focused on the story of the rich man and Lazarus and the need to live in a way that reveals our faith and serves others.
Our second stop was “Creating Heaven on Earth.” We centered on the statement Jesus made about the realm of God being like a mustard seed. In other words, the realm of God should not be difficult to grow. Mustard seeds are small and give way to giant shrubs.
We are like those mustard seeds. We can grow and become part of the realm of God on earth. This is a particular challenge these days. Love seems a bit scarce, making it more tempting to withdraw into our own small lives.
However, Jesus was forever reminding his disciples that the realm of God was near, always near. Believe it or not, the realm of God is just as close to us now as it was when Jesus walked the planet. Where human beings are, the realm of God is always near.
We are responsible for bringing it into the here and now. Today. And everyday. With every act of kindness, generosity, compassion, etc., we bring the realm of God nearer. If we want heaven on earth, it is our job to make it real.
We can confidently say that not everything “happens according to God’s will.” We realize the idea that all things happening according to the will of God makes God fickly and punitive. That, and God would seemingly prefer some who’ve done some awful things.
If we know that not all things are God’s will, then we also have to come to terms with the idea that God will not fix what human beings have broken. Yes, we can pray for healing. Yes, we can ask God for strength, courage, wisdom, and guidance. However, God is not going to clean up the planet, stop climate change, end war, or disrupt the current administration.
This doesn’t mean that God’s presence and God’s love are any less real. What it really means is that God works through human beings far more often than not. When we open ourselves to God, and live in response to God’s love, we are much more likely to participate in creating heaven on earth.
Wouldn’t it be amazing if everyone who claims the name of Christ committed to creating heaven on earth with acts of loving kindness? Well, we can’t control everyone else, though we can recommit ourselves.
What will you do today to bring the realm of God a little closer?
On Sunday, we will turn our attention to the parable of the Good Samaritan and caring for our neighbors. It’s a great way to be about creating heaven on earth.
In the meantime, remember that joy and rest are resistance. We are together in this.
About Rachael Keefe
Rev. Dr. Rachael Keefe is the pastor of Living Table United Church of Christ. She was called to Living Table in 2015 after serving in many varied ministry settings since her ordination in 1992. She holds graduate degrees from Princeton Theological Seminary and Andover Newton Seminary at Yale (formerly Andover Newton Theological School). Her ministry and leadership often center around advocacy and accessibility. Her writing has been published by Chalice Press, The Christian Century, Red Letter Christians, Working Preacher, RevGalBlogPals, and others. She is grateful to be in ministry with Living Table today.
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I started locally by sharing some fruit and vegetables with my parents today and played a few games of yahtzee; not something we often make time for
Suzanne, Local is always a good place to start!