In today's gospel Jesus begins his ministerial message. Usually when someone begins a new office or position they issue words that are meant to set the tone for their tenure; this includes both their vision statement and mission statement.
Jesus began with these words:
"This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel."
Simple, straight forward, to the point is our savior's words. There are two realities involved in this mission and invitation of Jesus to us all.
We must repent. We must recognize our straying ways, recognize that we have settled for less, recognize the good that is laid before our feet. We must desire to make a change. Most people understand this part. Most people want to repent, long for change, are tired of settling for less.
We must believe. We no longer just desire change but we reach for it. We allow the change of this kingdom to take root in us from within. We begin to live differently, not on our own will power, but we live by the will power of Christ who enthrones his strength in our hearts and minds. We reach for the higher standard of life. We are invigorated by a what is above.
Most people struggle with believing.
We all want to repent, we all want forgiveness but we are not all ready for the new life of the believer. Both are necessary if we are to truly tap into the power of God in Jesus who not only invites us to anew way of life but seeks to make that way within us.
This the time of fulfillment. The time is now. We cannot wait for it to happen in the long run. We do not live in the long run, we live today, we live right now. The kingdom of God is at hand, will you take it?
Will you let go and trust the one who knows?
Repent and believe and the good news will bring the fullness of joy and life into you.
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