Building a Kingdom of God at Large

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Verses:Deuteronomy 21:18-21 - "If a man has a stubborn and rebellious son, who will not obey the voice of his father or the voice of his mother, and, though they discipline him, will not listen to them, then his father and mother shall take hold of him and bring him out to the elders of his city, to the gate of his place. They shall say to the elders of his city, 'This our son is stubborn and rebellious; he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton and a drunkard.' Then all the men of his city shall stone him to death with stones, that he may die; so you shall purge the evil from your midst, and all Israel shall hear and fear."

In this passage, God establishes a standard for familial and communal discipline, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individuals and families within society. No person or family operates independently; each contributes to the stability and well-being of the community.

The scenario described may seem harsh, but its purpose is to illustrate the importance of upholding God's standards and maintaining social order. The rebellious son's actions threaten the community's moral fabric, necessitating collective action to address the issue.

This ancient wisdom teaches us valuable lessons. Firstly, our personal choices have far-reaching consequences, impacting those around us. Secondly, families serve as workshops for instilling social values and norms. Thirdly, God's Kingdom is not limited to individual relationships but encompasses the broader community.

As we strive to build a Kingdom of God at Large, we must recognize our interconnectedness and responsibility towards one another. Our norms and values should align with God's purposes, promoting a harmonious and righteous society.

In this pursuit, we must ask ourselves: What norms do we establish in our personal lives and families? Do they align with God's standards? Do we recognize our role in shaping the community around us?

May we seek to build a society where God reigns supreme, and we, as subjects, live in obedience to His will.

Prayer:

Oh Lord, help us recognize our interconnectedness and responsibility towards one another. May our personal choices and family values align with Your standards, contributing to a harmonious and righteous society. Guide us in building Your Kingdom at Large, where You reign supreme.

Amen.

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