“We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love.” (2 Corinthians 6:6 NLT)
What is the most attractive, appealing, yes, most beautiful aspect of God’s Kingdom to you? Realizing God’s Kingdom is God’s sovereign rule over all creation, both in the present and in the future, encompassing His authority, righteousness, and active involvement with humanity, it may be hard to put our finger on which aspect of His rulership over us is most meaningful and compelling.
But when we think of His Kingdom being comprised of those who have yielded their life and allegiance to Jesus, what is it about your relationships with those you know in the Body of Christ that stimulates your mind and encourages your heart? Surely there are breathtaking views of God’s creation that few if any human eyes have seen that would be awe inspiring and open to us an avenue of appreciation of our Heavenly Commander and Chief, but what of the beauty of the person who sets near you in church, who serves with you or attends your small group?
One group of people who have risen to the top in my appreciation are those who labor as Pastors, leaders and volunteers of our congregations. Men and women of God who daily work selflessly, not to promote themselves, but to exalt the Lord Jesus and bless His people – you and me. The more I get to know them, the more I love and thank the Lord for them, the more the Lord reveals His beauty in and through them.
Yes, of course, there are some shysters, but by and large, the men and women God has chosen to lead our churches are godly servants who serve selflessly to the honor and fame of their Savior. Are they perfect? Are you? Am I? Anytime someone tends to want to speak too highly of me I simply tell them to first run that by my wife.
No one except Jesus is perfect, so none of us are chosen because of who we are, but for who we can become when submitted to the Lordship of our Savior. That’s the beauty of God’s Kingdom, seeing through His eyes His imperfect, redeemed children. We’re in this journey together and the sweeter our company, the sweeter the journey.
We labor together in the fields of God’s choosing to glorify and honor Him, but also, to grow in our love for and appreciation of those with whom we labor. Ray Majoran captures the heart of this idea as he prays: “As we stand in the fields You have prepared, steady our steps and deepen our joy for the work before us. Shape us into people who serve with humble hearts, support those who feel discouraged, and rejoice in the compassion of the Master who calls us His own. May our lives bear witness to Your kindness so that others would see the beauty of Your kingdom.” (See The Vineyard – 11-26-25)
The beauty of God’s Kingdom can be seen in and through the life and ministry of the Lord Jesus, and through nature, of course, but among the most impactful displays of the Lord’s beauty is revealed through His children living, loving, and working together to extend His eternal Kingdom on earth. When I think of the most compelling reasons I’m a child of God, it’s because of the key people the Lord has put in my life along the way. And here’s the best part – He’s continuing to put them in my path…and YOURS!
Food for thought.
Blessings, Ed 😊
Walking With Jesus 