The Power and Purpose of Jesus

Good Wednesday to you,

Every organization makes a point to review their mission against their policies and or projects. Without careful attention, more often than not, organizations can deviate from their founding mission. It's call "Mission Drift." Non-profits are especially prone to mission drift. Making a point evaluate programs, structures, and policies intended to further the mission can be very beneficial—in order to keep the main thing "the Main Thing." 

On Sunday we looked closely at Jesus' mission. In Mark's Gospel, we're told Jesus goes into Galilee proclaiming the good news of God that "The time has come…The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!" (Mark 1:15). Such a sweet message to know the Kingdom of God is near. It's withing our grasp—almost like we can reach out and grab it like a cup of coffee. The news would have been exciting for the Jews.  

Now, one might ask, "What is the Kingdom of God?" Isn't it simply God's will done on earth as it is in heaven? I like to think of the Kingdom of God as rule and reign. So I ask myself often, who is King of my life in this decision? Who's authority am I operating within in this action? I'm afraid to say, the answer is not always the Lord Jesus Christ. More often than not, I'm operating as my own ruler and in by my own authority. The prayer we share together is completely appropriate each week – "your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." The moment by moment living in the Kingdom of God is where my heart (and hopefully yours) desires to live. 

Living in the Kingdom of God is good work. And, as Jesus invites us to live into the Kingdom each and every day, repentance and belief are daily reminders for us. The word repentance has acquired a terrible meaning. Often it comes with images of people shouting on street corners. But the word truly is an invitation to surrender our will to God's holy and perfect will for us. In other words, are we willing to turn over our own desires to rule and give the Lord his rightful place in our lives? I pray the answer is a unanimous "Yes!" 

As I think about Jesus' mission to proclaim the good news of the Kingdom of God, I am thankful for the opportunity to invite others into the Kingdom with me. In our culture there seems to be a "live and let live" mentality. But who wouldn't want to live in the Kingdom of God? As I walk with friends and family each day, there is ample opportunity to invite them along with me in this beautiful journey with Christ. There is hope, peace, joy, and love beyond our comprehension. Who does not need more of those aspects in their lives—I know I sure do.  

I am truly thankful for the opportunity to re-evaluate my mission against Jesus' mission. I'm reminded of when Jesus read from the scroll of Isaiah in the Synagogue and announced "Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing." Jesus read this in Isaiah: 

"The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
because he has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor. 
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners 
and recovery of sight for the blind, 
to release the oppressed, 
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor."

Let us continue living in the Kingdom of God here and now and inviting others to join us on the beautiful journey of transformation! 

Blessings, 
Pastor John

If you missed this Sunday’s sermon, click here to listen now!