In our fast-paced world, we often fall into the trap of thinking we have all the time in the world. We put off important decisions, delay mending relationships, and postpone our spiritual growth, always believing that "tomorrow" will be the perfect time to start. But what if tomorrow never comes?
This sobering question lies at the heart of a profound spiritual truth: the urgency of living in God's kingdom today. It's a call to action that challenges us to reconsider how we approach our faith and our daily lives.
Consider the story Jesus told about two tragic events. In one, worshippers were killed by Herod while offering sacrifices, their blood mingling with that of their offerings. In another, a tower collapsed in Jerusalem, killing unsuspecting victims. Jesus posed a provocative question: Were these people worse sinners than others? His emphatic answer was no.
This narrative challenges a common misconception in our theology – the idea that good things happen to good people and bad things to bad people. Jesus dismantles this notion, reminding us that tragedy can strike anyone, regardless of their perceived righteousness. The key takeaway? We shouldn't wait to live righteously or to embrace God's kingdom.
Jesus follows this with a stark warning: "Unless you repent, you too will all perish." This isn't a threat of divine punishment but a wake-up call. It's an invitation to turn away from the ways of the world that lead to unfulfilled lives and embrace the fullness of life that Christ offers – both in this world and the next.
The parable of the fig tree in the vineyard further illustrates this point. A tree is given three years to bear fruit, but when it fails to do so, the owner considers cutting it down. The gardener pleads for one more year, promising to tend and nurture it. This story reflects God's patience with us, but also the expectation that we will eventually bear good fruit.
We might be tempted to think, "Well, I have time. I'll get around to it eventually." But remember the parable of the rich fool from Luke 12. A man who had stored up great wealth for himself, thinking he had secured his future, hears God say, "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you." All his plans, all his security, vanished in an instant.
These teachings converge on a central theme: the urgency of living for God's kingdom now. It's not about fear of hell or divine retribution. Rather, it's about recognizing the incredible opportunity we have to experience the promises of Christ here and now. Why would we want to delay that?
So, how do we respond to this call for urgency? Here are some practical steps:
- Deepen your faith: Commit to spending a few minutes each day in prayer, speaking to and listening for God.
- Show love: Write an encouraging note to someone, expressing your appreciation and love.
- Mend relationships: Reach out to those you've been avoiding or with whom you have strained relationships.
- Serve others: Find ways to be the hands and feet of Christ, both within your church and in your broader community.
- Start each day with intention: Begin your mornings with a simple prayer: "God, help me be a part of your kingdom today. Help me bear fruit for your kingdom today."
These aren't necessarily big, life-changing moments (though they can lead to them). Instead, they're about building habits that align our lives with God's kingdom and help us bear fruit.
The invitation from Jesus is clear: You could be living in the kingdom of God right now, in this life, experiencing the promises and everlasting fulfilling life that comes with it. All it takes is a willingness to repent – to change your heart and mind.
We often ask ourselves, "If this was my last day on Earth, what would I do?" We treat it as a hypothetical question, but the reality is, we never know if today might be our last. So why wait? Why delay living the life God has called us to?
Don't put off till tomorrow what you can start today. Begin cultivating the roots that will help you bear good fruit. Choose one thing – maybe from the list above, or something the Spirit prompts in your heart – and commit to it. Start with a week, two weeks, or the rest of the season you're in. Watch how it grows and transforms your life.
Live with a sense of urgency and desire to be part of what God is doing. We may not know what tomorrow will bring, but we can choose how we live today. Wake up to the reality of God's kingdom around you. Look for where God is at work and join in. Be His hands and feet in whatever way you can. Proclaim the good news to a world desperate to hear it.
Remember, now is the appointed time. Now is the kingdom moment. Don't delay experiencing the fullness of life Christ offers. Turn your heart towards God today and every day you're given. For in doing so, you'll find not just urgency, but purpose, fulfillment, and a life overflowing with the fruit of God's kingdom.