Here we go, or perhaps I should say, here he goes!
Jesus knows the mission and urgency of this radical calling rooted in God’s great love for all people. After his baptism, after being tempted in the wilderness, Jesus Christ begins his ministry. And he doesn’t do so with hesitation; he does so with urgency. The time is now!
In our Scripture passage for today, found in the Gospel of Matthew, we see that Jesus goes to Galilee to begin his ministry, not to hide or wait, but to proclaim this good news. The word that became flesh is here, dwelling among us. It’s where this gospel begins: Immanuel, God with us (1:23). Church, we are no longer waiting on the promise of the Savior, the Messiah who is to come. He has come, bringing light into places long marked by darkness, and he will come again because God is absolutely faithful.
In this passage, Jesus reminds you and me that we are called into this mission; we are called to respond to this good news. We hear Jesus, with great urgency, preach these words: “Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near” (4:17).
So, what are we going to do? Are we going to go our way, or are we going to go God’s way? Jesus is inviting us into a new and abundant life that is only found in him. This kingdom that he speaks about looks completely different from the world. He is pointing us to a radical and transformative love that is available right here, right now. We don’t have to wait or check all the religious boxes; this love is for all people.
I don’t know about you, but when I experience the love of God, I can’t bottle it up and keep it to myself. This good news is something I have to share; it cannot be contained.
When was the last time you celebrated this good news, the love of God that is for you? My hope and my prayer are that you find joy today in God’s holy and active word that is for you. I pray that you are reminded that this abundant life is available for you right here, right now.
Because this good news? It’s too good to keep to yourself!
Reflection:
- Where in your life do you feel like Jesus might be nudging you to make a change, inviting you to let go of your way of doing things and follow his way, so you can step more fully into the full and abundant life he has for you?
- When was the last time the message about Jesus really felt alive and personal to you, not just something you’ve heard before, but something that actually stirred your heart with joy, hope, or gratitude?
- Is there someone in your life who God might be putting on your heart to invite to church this weekend so they can hear and experience this good news, too?