Oh boy, this year seems to never stop bringing the excitement! As we enter the last quarter of 2020 it feels like there has been no end to the craziness that started earlier in the year. It has taken all different shapes and forms, but no matter what it is that captures the headlines, we have been given plenty of reasons to be anxious and fearful… or have we?
On the last Sunday of September, Pastor Tim preached from Luke 12, focusing on verses 30-34.
For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek hiskingdom, and these things will be added to you.
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
In this passage, Jesus has listed off our most basic worries and then turns our focus to our Heavenly Father instead. He points out; “For all the nations of the world seek after these things.” Here is a good reminder for us – our most important citizenship is not found in the nations of this earth. Those “nations” are of this world, but we have a higher citizenship, a greater belonging, a higher ruler. Though we live within the nations of the world, we do not have the same troubles as those who are not redeemed. When we seek first the kingdom of God, our focus shifts from the temporary world around us to an eternal perspective. We no longer fret over our daily needs because we know the God who promises us a hope and a future far greater than any pleasure this world could ever hope to supply. Those who seek the kingdom no longer see their earthly wealth as their source of joy. When our hearts are focused on Christ, He is our sole joy.
Last night I made a valiant effort to watch the first presidential debate. I don’t think it would be out of line for me to say that it was a complete crap show. There were very few moments where I could recognize any semblance of the western world and its emphasis on logic and reasoning. For the 30 minutes that I forced myself to watch and believe me, I literally forced myself to do it, all I could pull away from the chaos was the thought that this is a product of a coming judgment on a nation that has fled from God at full speed. The surprising part though, was that there was no sense of dread or fear that accompanied that thought. Instead, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace. Not because I rejoice in the anticipation of misery for my family or my neighbors, but because I know who holds my soul in the palm of His hand. I know that no matter who the president, king, dictator is in charge of any nation, that Christ is king. In fact, I felt like it would be appropriate to share that reminder with family and friends on social media as well:
Do not worry, do not be anxious, do not fear. In the same way that we are commanded to flee our anxiety over our daily necessities, we should maintain this disposition when it comes to our earthly leaders as well. No matter who leads a nation, Christ is King. Be comforted by the fact that the one who redeemed your soul can never be defeated and sits on His throne as the sovereign ruler over all.
I challenge you to join me in taking some time at the beginning of this month for self-examination. Let’s look at our fears and earthly treasures in a new light. Instead of focusing on our worldly troubles, let’s focus on our true citizenship in the Kingdom of God.
Front Row Baptist 