07/24/2020
As we retreated into our personal households these past months, many felt alone and separated. Some even experienced separation anxiety. We could not embrace a parent, hold the hand of a grandchild, hug a dear friend, or high-five a classmate or co-worker who reached a milestone. It feels like a bizarre new world, not merely because of this lethal virus, but because of the turbulent and corrupt events tearing our communities apart. It is easy to feel like a stranger in a foreign land.
But here is good news. When we become followers of Jesus Christ, we learn that our citizenship is not of this earth. We are citizens of heaven. The challenge for us is to remember to whom we belong and where our citizenship lies. As members of God’s household, we are never separated or alone. We are neither a foreigner nor stranger. We are dearly loved brothers and sisters who can find holy comfort and contentment in any circumstance. Amen.
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“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Philippians 3:20
“Consequently, you are no longer foreigners or strangers, but fellow citizens with God’s people and also members of his household.” Ephesians 2:19-21
“Neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:39
“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:11-13
