Matthew

The KIngdom of God is for those who remain faithful to Jesus Christ. It is for those who separate themselves from the world and choose to seek God's Kingdom and His righteousness above all else. There is a wedding ceremony being prepared for all who have received Christ as Savior and have a prepared wedding garment. This garment represents both the imputed and imparted righteousness of Christ.

Just like the father spoke of in the parable in Matthew chapter 22, God the Father has called a banquet and the invitation has been given: come, partake of all that I offer! How will we respond to such a wonderful invitation? Let us give great consideration because there comes a time when the mercy call becomes the last mercy call.

One of the greatest indicators that we are growing in our relationship with God is our willingness to love. God is love! Love is not just something He does, it's what He is! In Matt. 22: 37-40, Jesus sums up all moral obligation with one word - Love. We are called to love God and love people. In order to properly do this we must have a deep seated trust in God as our source of provision, strength and power to do it!

Are you prepared for the unknown? The scriptures are clear in warning us that we have no guarantees about tomorrow. However, it is also clear that by living in the abiding presence of Christ we can be prepared for whatever tomorrow holds!

The Church today needs to awaken and see four areas of God's Kingdom through His eyes. 1. The Church must see the great need (Matt. 25: 31-40). We encounter many people in our daily life and should recognize the various needs each one has. 2. The Church must focus on the lost (Matt. 9: 35-38 and Matt. 28: 19-20). All of us have a different story that gives us the ability to reach certain, other people. 3. The Church must reach as many as we can (Luke 14: 16-24). 4. The Church must expand our area of outreach (Isaiah 54: 2-3). Multitudes of the world are waiting to be reached. We can make a positive difference for Christ in the lives of people we come in contact with at everyday places. Lord, send me!

The last words of Jesus to His disciples, prior to ascending to heaven were "Go, teach, baptize" (Matt 28:19). This has become known as "the great commission." Each and every follower of Christ is called to obey it. A kingdom minded people understands this and is willing to follow the Lord's call. However, many are like Jonah in the old testament - unwilling to obey. God has a way of getting our focus back on the Kingdom!!!