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Hell on Earth to Kingdom of God
by Major Osei Stewart
2020 cannot end any quicker as I am
sure there are many who are just counting down to the end of
what most have called a dreadful year or the year from Hell.
It was difficult as we faced so many unforeseen obstacles and
challenges this past year. So many unwanted changes and
occurrences - from Coronavirus, masks, social distancing, hand
sanitizing, health orders, quarantine restrictions - to the
loss of life of so many people, like celebrities we “knew”
from afar to our family and friends, loved-ones, near and far
dying unexpectedly. This thing is maddening and there rings
true a certain level of uncertainty that we have all
experienced. And no doubt, we are wondering what should we
expect in the next few months? Will things get worse? Will it
get much better? For many, the outlook is grim.
However, Isaiah 41:10 says,
“Fear not, for I am with
you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen
you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous
right hand.”
These last few months, we also
experienced the divisive political and racial tensions in the
USA; the sin of racism has been exposed and people are up in
arms and angry. Coronavirus seemingly has made our senses more
acute of the sin of racism and hate that permeates our
culture, nation and world. Across the country police brutality
and other societal injustices are being confronted head-on. I
believe we are at the precipice of change.
It has been a rough year, indeed. And I
believe that we have had much opportunity to take advantage of
our unwelcome circumstances, because so many are truly
searching for answers and are wanting to escape the fear and
worry that has troubled their hearts.
While I do not have any answers for
what the future holds, what I can say with boldness and
certainty is that God is still on the Throne – despite the
bickering. Despite the uncertainty. Despite the deaths.
Despite the protests and push back on the systems. In spite of
it all, God still reigns, and He reminds us in Philippians
4:6-7 “Do not be anxious
about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And
the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will
guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
As believers, we have a real
opportunity to be present for the many that are hurting and
broken because so many are desperately trying to find a way
out of the madness. As believers, we have a real opportunity
to be light in the dark world to let our light shine before
others, so that they may …give glory to our Father who is in
Heaven. (Matthew 5:16) and be salt to bring flavor and
seasoning to the bitterness of life.
In spite of the difficulties, we have
been handed opportunities to take a step back and embrace the
uncertainty by leaning even more into the Savior Jesus,
trusting Him through each one. More importantly, we have an
opportunity to make a kingdom difference by being on a united
front to save souls and to minister to people whom are
hurting, fearful, and worried. To bring the kingdom of God –
Here and Now, serving as vessels of intentional love, to
people with whom we come into contact. Philippians 2:2 says,
“Complete my joy by
being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full
accord and of one mind.”
These days, it may feel like Hell on
Earth, but the Kingdom of God is greater and will last forever
and as believers we can be vessels of His love and His hope
that will draw people to the Savior.
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