Answering the Call: Bringing God's Kingdom Near
In a world that often feels chaotic and divided, there's a profound truth that can transform how we live: Jesus is sending you. This isn't about pointing fingers at others or waiting for someone else to make a difference. It's a personal invitation to each of us to bring God's kingdom near through our everyday lives.
The concept might sound daunting, but it's rooted in a simple yet powerful idea - Jesus changing lives through you. But what does this look like in practice? How can we step into this calling with confidence and purpose?
Risking It All: A Call to Step Out of Comfort and Into Faith
Have you ever felt stuck in the monotony of life? Wake up, eat, work, sleep, repeat. It's easy to fall into routines that leave little room for God to interrupt us or use us in unexpected ways. But what if there's more to life than this? What if God is calling us to risk again, to step out in faith, and to allow Him to do something fresh and new through us?
The story of Jesus calling His first disciples provides a powerful illustration of what it means to risk everything for the Kingdom of God. Picture the scene: seasoned fishermen, exhausted after a long night of fruitless labor, are cleaning their nets by the shore. Suddenly, Jesus steps into their boat and asks them to push out a little from the shore so He can teach the crowds. Already, we see Jesus interrupting their plans and routines.
Grow Down: Rediscovering Childlike Faith in a Grown-Up World
Remember that childhood dream of becoming a professional football player, veterinarian, or astronaut? We all harbored aspirations of growing up, believing it meant achieving success and independence. But what if the key to true joy and purpose lies not in "growing up," but in "growing down"?
This journey of "growing down" isn't about regressing into childishness; it's about rediscovering the innocence, trust, and wonder that often get lost in the complexities of adulthood. It's about cultivating a heart open to God's presence, embracing dependence on a higher power, and living with unwavering faith.