Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: RSS

“I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look! God’s dwelling-place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’” (Revelation 21:3-4)

In both the words of Revelation 7 and 21, we read about God’s plan for the future. This plan concerns a new heaven and new earth, a new Jerusalem coming down out of heaven and God’s dwelling place being among the people. Believers will never again hunger or thirst, as God wipes away ever tear and the old order of things passes away. These words offer comfort and hope for the future but especially for those who Christian Aid seeks to serve, where the brokenness and frustration of this world is so closely felt. But this kingdom is not just His plan for the future, it is God’s plan for today. The new heaven and new earth have not come yet, but in the arrival of Jesus, the coming kingdom has been announced. Jesus said Himself in Luke 4:18a, “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because He has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.” In Matthew 10:1, Jesus gave His disciples authority to drive out impure spirits and heal every disease. In Luke 10:9, Jesus sent out the 72 to heal and perform miracles saying, “tell them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.” And in John 14:12, Jesus says, “whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things.” We are to be vessels through which God’s kingdom comes today, so how can we join this kingdom activity? Three things: pray, participate and perceive what God is calling and dreaming you to do for the building of His kingdom on earth as in heaven.