Jesus came to usher in His kingdom.
Immigration has been a popular topic, lately. Everyone seems to have a strong opinion on how the U.S. immigration process can be improved. We even debate whether we should have an immigration system at all or if we should have open borders.
One of the reasons immigration is such a hot topic is because so many people are trying to become citizens of the United States. They are seeking a better life.
As great as the United States may be, it’s can’t compare to the Kingdom of God.
When we pray for God’s Kingdom to come, we are saying we want to be citizens of God’s Kingdom and we are praying that His Kingdom would come to others as well.
Many people got confused when Jesus said His Kingdom was coming, thinking that Jesus was going to be an earthly king, but Jesus, himself, said His kingdom was not of this world.
So, what is His Kingdom?
It is the gracious rule of God. Some churches talk about the rule of God and focus solely on God’s commands. However, first and foremost, it is God’s gracious, life-giving salvation. It is when God creates faith in our hearts through His Word by the power of the Holy Spirit that we become citizens of His Kingdom. Then, as citizens, we are freed to follow God’s good and loving commands.
This is why we say, God’s Kingdom comes to us. With the U.S. people have to come to it and try to get in. With God’s Kingdom, it comes to us in grace and mercy to bring God’s abundant life to us.
There is no sneaking across a river or climbing a wall to get into God’s Kingdom. Everyone who enters comes in the same way, through faith in Jesus Christ. Thankfully, citizenship in God’s Kingdom is available to all.
So, let us pray each and every day, “Thy Kingdom come.” We want God’s gracious rule for our lives and those around us, even the whole world.
