And, Yes, we find the Kingdom of God within.

16Aug
Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. And He said ‘Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money….’
- Luke 9:1-3

Where is the Kingdom of God? How do we find the Kingdom of God?

I am very familiar with this story of Jesus sending the Twelve. But His directions to them always takes my breath away: “Take nothing with you...” Where is the Kingdom when one has nothing?

The Twelve-who-had-nothing were sent to love others who also had nothing: the sick, the demon-possessed and those dispossessed of a kingdom-home or identity.

As I meditate on the challenging journey of the Twelve, I think on those in our lives today to whom we (with “nothing”) are sent to love, but who also may be seen to have nothing.

I think about people immigrating (like our forebears did) to America from Sudan, Turkey, Venezuela, Mexico seeking a new life or job, praying for political or religious asylum: many of them with nothing – not even a familiar language, family, or friend. Some near starving when they arrive.  

I think of people losing everything: family, homes, jobs, life savings through natural or economic disasters.

I think of people struck with a stroke, cancer, mental disease, or addiction …. losing their memory, ability to control their bowels, their speech, their behavior….. their dignity.

I think of women, men, (and children) locked up in jails or prisons . . . many with nothing.

I believe that the Twelve HAD to go with Nothing in order to learn the faith of reliance on what God Provides rather than what we Possess.  

And, Yes, we find the Kingdom of God within. But God also expects us to provide for others in His Kingdom on this Earth (as it is in Heaven). Even though we may think we have “nothing”, like the Twelve we bear Jesus’ name are sent to reach out to our sisters and brothers who really DO have nothing.

Musical Reflection - Nothing to Fear - The Porter's Gate

Lord Jesus, you give us difficult marching orders . . . . sending us out with nothing but reliance upon you to love our neighbors as ourselves - as you love us. Strengthen and sustain us so that we may truly know and share your Kingdom in all its fullness and glory. Thank you for healing us and making us citizens as your beloved. Amen.
GospelKingdom of God
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#kingdom #disciples

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