How does a Godly kingdom look like?

By Rev Kenneth Mtata 

8 January 2022

Today's Readings

Psalm 72; Daniel 2:24-49; Ephesians 5:15-20

Verse of the day

"In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people" (Daniel 2:44).

Daniel and his friends finally told king Nebuchadnezzar his dream and its meaning. The simple message of their interpretation was that, (a) no matter how strong, every human Kingdom comes to an end, (b) there is a Godly kingdom that does not come to an end but endures forever.

What does such a Godly kingdom look like This? This Godly kingdom is described in this week's Psalm, Psalm 72.  Let's just look at some of its characteristics: 

(a) in it people live in justice (just relations between humans) and righteousness (right standing beforeGod)(Psalm 72:1-2, 12-14);

(b) it's wealth and prosperity benefits the the rest of the people (Psalm 72:3)

(c) it takes special cares for the most vulnerable, like children and widows (Psalm 72:4)

(d) it is gracious (represented by the rain) in its ways of working (Psalm 72:6)

(e) it's economy is based on righteousness and for this reason it's sustainable (Psalm 72:7)

(f) it is admired and respected by other kingdoms who bring their wealth and tributes to it (Psalm 72:9-10)

(g) It is not idolatrous, so it ascribes glory only to God and not humans (Psalm 72:18-19).

It is this Godly kingdom which will outlive all human kingdoms.  In the Lord's prayer we pray, "Let your kingdom come." In this prayer, we as disciples yean for this Godly kingdom to be established in our hearts, in our homes, in our communities, in our churches,  in our nations and in the whole world. For this reason,  disciples of Christ cooperate with God towards the establishment and realisation of this Godly kingdom. 

Prayer

Our God, we pray that you reveal to us the mysteries of your lasting kingdom. May it be fully established in me, my family, my church and my nation. In Jesus Christ,  who rules together the father and the Holy Spirit,  be praise and glory, now and forever. 

AMEN