What would it look like?

Revelation 11:15 (NRSV)

Then the seventh angel blew his trumpet, and there were loud voices in heaven, saying,
"The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord
and of his Messiah, and he will reign forever and ever."

What will it be like when that day comes...when the kingdom of the world is all his? The Revelation of John vividly, apocalyptically describes the future reign. But what about now? How can we live an incarnational life here and now?

For Christ's reign to begin now, it must begin in the hearts of his people, our hearts. As I was pondering this and its outcomes, a chorus came to mind. Part of it is, "...may your kingdom be established in our praises, as your people declare your mighty worth!" Establishing his kingdom with our praises, not just verbally, but with our very lives, days, moments. "For to me to live is Christ..." (Phil 1:21) was Paul's affirmation.

Just think of the ripple effect this would have. What would our lives, marriages, relationships, work, churches look like? How would they be different if we let Christ be the king of our lives, let him into the corners of our hearts and minds where we haven't let anyone, the places we don't like to go?

The noise of this world demands our attention, draining our energy. Let's spend time in his presence, allowing his grace to wash over us, renew us, so he can reign in us.

Let us pray. Dear God, there are so many areas of our lives we keep to ourselves. There are the dark places no one knows about. Help us to let you in to pour your healing love and grace upon us. Amen.