Pause

There is such a thing, you know, as having too much: too much money, too much power, too many possessions, even too much time – if we become bored with it.

It's hard to know, sometimes, when it becomes too much. A good clue is that we lose sight of when and where the reign of God is revealed.

In these next moments, ask God to clarify your view, clear out whatever clouds your vision, and help you to see where God is at work.

Listen

For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. And the Holy Spirit also testifies to us, for after saying, “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I will put my laws in their hearts, and I will write them on their minds.”

Hebrews 10:14-16

Think

No matter how beautiful the resort or how pricey the hotel, there is always a massive, ugly-looking sign posted by the pool. At the very top, in letters too big to miss, it says, “Rules.” Filling the sign from side to side, top to bottom are rules that cover the hotel in case of a lawsuit.

That’s not how the Kingdom of God works at all.

The writer of today’s Scripture is showing us a different way, one that values rules, but isn’t caught up in a checklist. The gift of Jesus Christ makes it possible for the Kingdom-way-of-life to move from a list of rules on a wall to an actual part of us. From outside to inside. From dos and don’ts to a sanctified character.

Because it’s a part of who we are and not just a list of rules, we get to be creative with the way we follow. Be busy about helping the world be fair. Surprise people with more grace than they expect. Live hand-in-hand with the God who leads you.

That’s the Kingdom of God in you.

John Woods

Pray

Spirit-Friend who dwells inside of me, calm my heart so that following you becomes a part of who I am, so that your character infiltrates every part of my being. Amen.

Go

Go now knowing just how much you are blessed.
Find creative ways to risk yourself for the world God loves.
Seek out ways to be extravagant with your gifts,
Making your life useful in God's service.