Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Listen to the Word

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.”  (Philippians 3:20)

Two things are true about most of the people reading these words: you are American, and you are Christian. But which of those identities is most central? Today’s verse reminds us: if we are followers of Jesus Christ, our identity as Americans is secondary to our identity as citizens of God’s kingdom. We are permanent citizens of heaven who temporarily reside in the United States.

It is a huge blessing to be an American. But Americans are not God’s chosen people. God has no preference for Americans over other nations. He was not watching the Olympics a few weeks ago chanting “U-S-A! U-S-A!” The Kingdom of God will be around long after the United States ceases to exist.

We must approach American politics as exiles, working for the good of our temporary home. And we must approach American politics as ambassadors, remembering that our primary job on this planet and in this nation is to be representatives of the King of kings.

Live the Word

Strive to be aware of opportunities to be Christ’s representative in the interactions you have today.