Strive First for the Kingdom of God

Many thanks to my friends Nancy, Yaret, Gabe and Saul--for introducing me to "Background" by Lecrae (featuring C-Lite).  I'm reminded that the Teacher is always at hand, always shining a light, always offering encouragement for the journey ahead.  Even now, even tonight, he bids me follow.  "Do not worry," he says.  "God knows what you need."  Let your heart sing.  Let your life love.  Let your light shine.  The battle is already won.  "Follow me."

Discipleship.  Following Jesus against the grain.  Following Jesus into the contradictions of the cross.  Following Jesus into the beating heart of mystery.  Discipleship.  Jesus says "strive first for the kingdom of God...and all the rest will be provided..."  Seek ye first the kin-dom, the oneness, the healing of life.  Jesus is that Love. 

Am I willing, am I ready to follow?  To turn my full attention to the kingdom--to the reconciliation of broken pieces, to the healing of broken lives, to the project of God's kingdom on earth?

My study this spring--with two very special and very different study groups--reminds me that I cannot answer these huge questions alone.  I can only answer in partnership with others, others who ask questions of their own and rely on my friendship and my encouragement.  Even as I rely on theirs.