Thought for Thursday
For our conversation is in Heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20
Election years are always filled with hype and promises. Already, the airwaves and other media in New Brunswick are filled with advertising for the provincial election this fall. Federal parties continue to jockey and brag, in the off-chance there might be a federal election in the coming months if the minority government runs into roadblocks. And in the neighbouring United States, campaign promises and accusations are constantly being churned out in this election year. Can we believe the claims and promises? Hard to tell, especially when the different parties contradict and challenge each other. But in many ways, it really should not matter to us as Christians, because our citizenship is in Heaven, and our Leader has made unbreakable promises.
The word ‘conversation’ in today’s text is really the word for citizenship. Just as citizens of our province and country have an interest in the promises made by those in power (and those wanting to be in power), so too should we take an interest in the promises of the One who is in power in Heaven. Paul reminds us that we are looking for Him to come for us. He has promised to do so… and that is just one of His many great and precious promises. Amid the clamour and confusion of the political promises made on earth, we can appreciate the clear and definite promises that the Lord Jesus has made to His citizems who are waiting the call to return Home.
During a recent visit to New Hampshire, we encountered many political statements and characters. But they had little interest to Canadians such as ourselves; they dealt with issues that are irrelevant to us. In the same way, the world’s politics are irrelevant to Christians. Or should be, unless we are taking a far too worldly approach to the lives we are living.
How can the promise of a tax decrease or a new social program be appealing to a Christian who is waiting for the fulfilment of the promise of the Rapture? The affairs of Heaven should be our occupation; that is where our citizenship lies. -Jim MacIntosh