Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Wednesday Nov. 18, 2015

John 18:36-37

Jesus answered, ‘My kingdom is not from this world. If my kingdom were from this world, my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews. But as it is, my kingdom is not from here.’ Pilate asked him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.

Listen

The news is filled the violence of ISIS and the response of nations around the world. They track down those who kill in the name of God, those who understand nothing of the Truth who beats at the heart of my brother Jesus.

My kingdom is not from this world, you say. No, my brother, it is not, and the very thought of this brings tears to my eyes. I long for your kingdom and feel the difference between your kingdom and any other.

Kingdoms and nations all rely on force to create a measure of order (if not also justice) among myriad competing interests and desires.

Not you, your kingdom is known by those who listen to the inner voice of love who is the Voice of the Loving Mystery who filled you.

“Those who know that Voice … know me,” you say, “and those who know me … know that Voice.

“Those who hunger to hear the voice of gracious welcome and acceptance to calm their hearts and quell their fears … these are my people, my kingdom, a community of Truth.

“They listen to life that they may hear the Truth who speaks in every beauty and grace of this world. They listen … and become the grace and beauty who is Truth, the Truth before time, the Truth who will be when time is no more.”

I hear you speaking in the music that plays in this place as a red candle burns and the clamor of the world quiets. You are always here … and everywhere I go. Truly.

You are the Voice of Love who hungers within for the Love who is so much more than any one heart can hold. But hold you I do and ever will.

And I know … you will speak through the moments of this day. All I need do is listen.

Pr. David L. Miller