Citizenship in Heaven

This last week we had the opportunity and privilege to exercise our right as citizens to cast a vote toward the election of leadership positions in this country. What a blessing to live in a time and place where we have that ability.  Between all of the political ads, signs, and “I voted yall” picture posts, there were reminders all around us to be a responsible citizen and perform our civic duty through voting. As Christians we should strive to be good citizens through engagement in our culture, praying for and submitting to our leaders that God has placed over us, advocating for greater human flourishing and the sanctity of life, loving our neighbor and caring for those in need.  However, we must also recognize that this world is perishing. The suffering and injustice that we experience and see around us are constant reminders of the effects of sin and the insufficiency of any human means or persons to save us. But there is hope in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Christian, remember that your true citizenship is in heaven.  This is not our ultimate home.  We are sojourners here as we wait patiently and purposely for our heavenly kingdom, a kingdom that can not be shaken, ruled perfectly by King Jesus.

The anchored assurance in that reality should fill us with hope and free us to then walk wisely in this world, making the best use of the time because the days are evil. We are then not simply earthly citizens trying in vain to improve a corrupted and dying world, but we are ambassadors of a heavenly kingdom sent out into this world, as we walk in the Spirit to live in obedience consistent with our calling, and a commission to spread the Gospel of Christ.  Christian, live in this world as a heavenly citizen as you wait eagerly for Christ’s return.