Luke_17
Luke 17:20-2120 Once, on being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, Jesus replied, “The coming of the kingdom of God is not something that can be observed, 21nor will people say, ‘Here it is,’ or ‘There it is,’ because the kingdom of God is in your midst.*”* The foot note reads “Or is within you”ObservationA lot packed into a single chapter, Luke 17 covers: the importance of not causing others to stumble, forgiveness against others who may sin against us, the power of faith, remaining humble and the healing of 10 men with leprosy, only one of which returns to give thanks.UnderstandingFor the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. -1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV) A while back, we read “When Heaven Invades Earth” by Bill Johnson as part of one of our DSU courses. It turned my idea of heaven on its head…talking about how we are the conduits to bring heaven down. But in order to do so, we must live in power – the power of the living God and His kingdom living INSIDE of us. And how do we do that? We’ve got to fill ourselves up from the source.But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness… - Matthew 6:33Life ApplicationAs we go into the “holiday season,” it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle, bustle, shuffle of getting everything done – only X days til Christmas, the need/desire to close out 2018 with a laundry list of things you’d hoped to accomplish, or already preparing for the new year. There are tons of things that can steal our attention away from our source, and not necessarily even bad things…but may we orient our days, orient this season to the one from whom all good things come. Also, may we look for opportunities to be the conduit through which Heaven invades Earth…with the destruction our state has faced over these last few weeks, there’s likely many hearts searching and needing healing – which only God can truly provide. God, fill me to overflowing. May I seek you first daily, not allowing the distractions to steal away what belongs to you and what you deserve. Keep my eyes open to share your love with others; and may I operate in boldness as I do. In your name, I pray. Amen.-ReiPS If anyone wants to read/reread “Heaven Invades Earth” with me, I’m setting out to complete it before we head to India at the end of December. Hit me up, would love to have opportunity to discuss it with someone…or multiple someones. :) To check out the discussion or to join in click here.