Little Kingdoms
I recently have been enjoying John Ortberg's thoughts both in print and online. His book The Life You've Always Wanted has chapter after chapter of good solid advice for living a full life for Christ in the Kingdom. But something he mentioned online really resonated with me.He was talking on a panel of speakers and mentioned that each of us has been given dominion - we each have been created in God's image and so own a small kingdom that we are responsible for. We all have relationships, responsibilities, gifts, time, and resources.
I think I've had a hard time understanding this in life. Early on (in grade school and high school) I just neglected my "kingdom" - did a poor job at managing the things in my life. During college as I read about Jesus I found that he preached a message of the Kingdom of God - a vast, international, eternal, network of people and beings that loved God and their neighbors and enemies.
Suddenly I jumped from poorly managing my Kingdom to trying to manage the whole Kingdom of God.
As I traveled in East Africa this past year it was clear to me that my abilities and reach were limited (thank God for that). I am not responsible for the salvation, care, and hope of the world. I am part of a team of followers of Christ and we all have responsibilities or kingdoms that we are called to rule and take care of.
Thankfully this epiphany was given to me and I feel like I have a second wind right now. I want to understand the simple responsibilities that God has called me into and then do those really well.
Prepare for a streamlined Dan.
posted by Dan @ 5:03 PM
3 Comments:
Thanks for sharing this Dan. As a stay-at-home mom my kingdom feels REALLY small most of the time. But if I take a step back to gain the full perspective, taking care of lil' E now effects his life for years and generations to come. (No pressure, right?!) :)
I'm really thankful for and humbled by the work you and Erin do, understanding that your kingdom is so much more magnified because of the tremendous need that you fill for so many - the hands and feet of Jesus.
Kelli Fern! It's good to get an update from your kingdom and the little fellow you are entrusted with. Blessings to you and Nate and Eli!
This post about our kingdoms reminds of the late conversation at Jason and Min's table. It is so easy to become overwhelmed the the vast need in the world, esp in Africa. I'm glad to hear you have a second wind after such a long trip.
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