Last week we meditated on the baptism of Jesus at the river Jordan. This was his introduction to the people. At his baptism a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." After his baptism Jesus was led into the wilderness for 40 days where he fasted and was tempted by the enemy. Having overcome the enemy, Jesus was ready for his public ministry. His first priority was to make disciples. The followers of Jesus, or disciples, were the ones who brought the good news to the whole world.
The Bible describes Christ's kingdom as a building that is under construction. St. Paul writes in the book of Ephesians, "God is building a home. He's using us all-irrespective of how we got here-in what He is building. He used the apostles and prophets for the foundation. Now He's using you, fitting you in brick by brick, stone by stone, with Christ Jesus as the cornerstone that holds all the parts together. We see it taking shape day after day-a holy temple built by God, all of us built into it, a temple in which God is quite at home" (Ephesians 2:19-22, The Message).
The process of building His kingdom will go on until He returns. You and I have the privilege of adding living stones to the building. Every person who puts their faith in Christ is being added to his kingdom. May the Lord help us to be involved in building His kingdom by introducing people to Him.
See you
Sunday,
Ivan+