Luke 17:20-21
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Take a moment to settle into your surroundings and then begin to recognize your breath. As you breathe in, call on the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
Read Luke 17:20-21 slowly and thoughtfully.
It’s easy to look at the Pharisees and judge them stubborn and blind, but the truth is that most of us are resistant to ideas that challenge our view of God and our place in the world. The Israelites were looking for a conquering Messiah who would overthrow the occupying Roman government, and this desire to be free from oppressive control is something everyone can appreciate.
What they failed to realize is that the Kingdom of God is not about conquest or dominion. God’s Kingdom is the realm where shalom reigns, and it is embodied in Jesus. The Kingdom was there among them because Jesus was there.
Take some time to still yourself and become aware of the presence of Jesus. Breathe in the name of Jesus and exhale any distractions. When you are calm, meditate on the fact that because Jesus is present in you and with you, the Kingdom of God is also present.
Read Luke 17:20-21 again.
Another way to think about shalom is to look at the love of God – agapé love.
For the remainder of your time in meditation today, contemplate the words of the Apostle Paul regarding agapé love. Take one phrase at a time and stay with it until you feel ready to move on. Ask Jesus to speak to you through these words.
“Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
What is Jesus saying to you today?
What will you do about that?
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