The Kingdom Here, But Not Yet
One thought that has never left my brain
I’m sure this wasn’t an original phrase, but I vividly remember hearing the phrase “the Kingdom here, but not yet” from a speaker at a youth conference in 2011.
And, ever since then, I think about that phrase way more than one probably should.
The concept of praying, “May your [God’s] kingdom come soon” was so fascinating to me because…what does this mean?
Are we going back to the medieval era?
Do I need to start horseback riding and learning how to forge my own armor and weapons?
Obviously, the answer is no!
However, that still doesn’t leave me with some good answers.
But, as I have read scripture, books, listened to sermons and teachings, and thought about and studied The Lord’s Prayer, I have come to some conclusions.
God’s Kingdom isn’t here yet
God’s Kingdom isn’t “heaven” (or else it would be “here”)
God’s Kingdom, in some shape or form, needs our involvement or presence, which is why Jesus taught us to pray for God’s Kingdom to come soon!
These are interesting conclusions! But why should this change how I pray?
Well, because it means that, whatever God’s Kingdom looks like, we are invited to participate in that coming Kingdom. That Kingdom that is here, but isn’t fully here yet.
And the fact that God invites us into that journey, to me, means we should all be excited how God might move in and through us with the help of the Spirit.
My prayer for today
Our Father, thank you for inviting and encouraging us to be a part of your Kingdom. Give us clear direction and insight into what that means for each one of us. Father, I know I’m still figuring it out. Help me build your Kingdom how you see fit. Amen.
Remember
Your prayers matter. And when your prayers matter, you realize that your words matter. And, don’t actions speak louder than words? Your actions are a type of prayer and communication with God, your actions can help build God’s Kingdom!