The Kingdom of Heaven is Near

Now when Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and made his home in Capernaum by the lake, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, so that what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: ‘Land of Zebulun, land of Naphtali, on the road by the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles— the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.’ From that time Jesus began to proclaim, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Matthew 4:12-17

Jesus takes up his cousin's cry, "repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near!" We're familiar with those words, yet few are sure exactly what they mean. Recently, when the Artemis II crew was interviewed, they were asked what they learned from their time in space. Christina Koch, mission specialist, said she learned how important the little things are, how the small daily acts are so important and make the world go round. Although I am paraphrasing her remarks, they hit home for many. The kingdom of heaven is not to be found in some vast interstellar experience, but rather in the small, everyday acts of love. May we be grateful today, for all the expressions and moments of the kingdom of heaven brought near.

Wondrous Creator, you formed stars and galaxies

giving us minds to explore and comprehend space

and hearts to see your kingdom present here with us.

We want great big impacts and even bigger payouts

yet your love is in the small cup of coffee and a smile

offered in the overlooked places on our planet.

Lord, help us to have eyes to see your goodness here

let us be grateful for the small gestures of kindness

and make us those who share your loving kingdom here. Amen.