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

There are times when we know the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Our breath stops as we take in an amazing sunset, when the wind blows cool air in great heat. We look in the face of a newborn child, the sweet, wrinkled face of an elder, and the tender hope in our families. God is indeed always near, even when we do not see or acknowledge God's presence. We may not see but with each breath God draws always closer, inviting us to prayer despite our anger, anxiety and fears.

Loving Creator, who draws near as we sleep

who touches us when we awake each morning

who lifts our feet when they have grown weary

and fills us up when we are so totally spent.

We often think you have abandoned us here

the violence and dangers that arise every day

convince us that you have given up on your world

yet you are breathing ever and walking with us.

Gracious Savior, hear our exhausted prayers

refill our empty hearts and our empty spirits

help us to see your face in each stranger we meet

and let us be your light in impending darkness. Amen.