"For the kingdom
of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the
Holy Spirit, because anyone who serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved
by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual
edification."
This reading is a small snapshot of Christianity. If I might
paraphrase: "For the kingdom of God is not a party, but people helping each other to
live in peace, joy and God. Those on earth who live by this, will be loved by God and man.
So let’s try."
Sounds simple doesn’t it? So why is it so hard for us to live this
simple lifestyle? Because we are human and humans are flawed. This doesn’t mean we
shouldn’t try.
Like with most endeavors, we need to start small. Let’s start with
our families. Bring righteousness, peace, joy and most of all God into our family life.
How can we do this? By doing. Being an example is the best way to teach.
We can do this by listening and learning. My daughter points out that
Steve, of Blues Clues, says that when you’re mad you need to stop, breath, and think.
What good advice! How often is our family’s peace and joy disrupted by something said
without thinking? Isn’t it amazing how we can learn from even the smallest and
weakest?
When our families are cared for, let’s expand to our church
family, then our community, and so on. Remember, each step will add more people, so you
won’t be alone.
As love for God grows, love for each other grows.
