Message Minute (Living as Kingdom People)

As followers of Jesus, we're not just subjects in God's kingdom - we're active participants in it. Peter describes us as a "royal priesthood," emphasizing our identity and purpose in God's kingdom plan. Being kingdom people means recognizing that our primary citizenship is in God's kingdom. This shapes how we live in the world. We're called to be different, to stand out in a world that often opposes God's ways. But this difference isn't for its own sake - it's so that we can "proclaim the excellencies" of God. Living as kingdom people affects every aspect of our lives. It influences how we approach our work, seeing it as an opportunity to extend God's reign of justice and beauty. It shapes our relationships, calling us to love others with the sacrificial love of Christ. It even impacts how we engage in culture and politics, as we seek to be faithful to God's kingdom above all other allegiances. But being kingdom people isn't always easy. We live in the tension of the "already but not yet" - God's kingdom is here, but not in its fullness. We experience the power of God's reign, but we also face opposition and struggle. In this tension, we're called to live with both power for today and hope for tomorrow. As kingdom people, we're on mission with God. Every day, in big and small ways, we have the opportunity to make God's invisible reign visible. Through acts of love, justice, and beauty, we offer the world a glimpse of God's kingdom.

Verse: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light." - 1 Peter 2:9

Reflection Question: In what specific ways can you live out your identity as part of God's "royal priesthood" in your daily life?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for calling me into Your kingdom and making me part of Your people. Help me to live in a way that reflects Your reign and draws others to Your marvelous light. May my life proclaim Your excellencies today. Amen.