by Sherry Sommer
Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. . Matthew 6:10b NIV
Do what’s best—as above, so below. Matthew 6:10b The Message
Jesus teaches us to pray that his will be “done on earth as it is in heaven”. God wants earth to be a mirror of heaven, albeit imperfect for now. He wants us to pray with this end in mind and for us to be partners in this work.
This idea of bringing God’s kingdom can be used to justify oppression, destruction, violence, unjust laws, and oppression. We can see this in history, and we can see it today. Jesus is not telling his disciples to use force or to create theocracies in his name. We need to use his ways to partner with him in kingdom-bringing.
Transformed lives:
In order to bring God’s kingdom to earth, we need to start by being transformed by him. This process of transformation makes us more like Jesus, and more the person God created us to be. As Paul says, when we are transformed by the Holy Spirit, we will better understand God’s will.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2 NIV
Show up!
God’s fingerprints are on every one of us; He created us intending that each of us make their own unique contributions to bring his kingdom to earth. Each one of us has unique gifts and spheres of influence. Paul reminds us to show up as servants of God:
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, Colossians 3:23 NIV
I also like this quote by Martin Luther:
What else is all our work to God—whether in the fields, in the garden, in the city, in the house, in war, or in government—but just such a child’s performance, by which He wants to give His gifts in the fields, at home, and everywhere else? These are the masks of God, behind which He wants to remain concealed and do all things.
I like how Paul says “Whatever you do”. My children attended an elementary school that prided itself on the education it delivered. Interestingly, the most beloved adults in the school were the janitorial staff and a woman who served lunch. Pearline would always say a friendly hello to Samuel as she served him lunch, so he considered her a friend and ally. While a school would not think to advertise the excellence of their support staff, these were the people who really connected with the kids and made a difference in the school climate.
Do everything in love:
God is love and bringing his kingdom to earth needs to reflect his love:
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. I Corinthians 13:4-7 NIV
God owns everything; he can accomplish anything; and, he will bind all wounds in his time. We don’t need to take the reins to try to get things done for him in our own strength.
Let’s pray that we will listen to the Holy Spirit’s promptings as we partner with God in bringing his kingdom to earth to honor him.
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