Matthew 6:31-34

In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus says: "Strive first for the kingdom of God and God's righteousness. Do not worry about tomorrow." In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus tells his disciples that they should not be anxious about what they will eat, or drink or wear. "For the Gentiles seek all these things; and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all." (v. 32) 

What would it mean to strive for the kingdom of God and God's righteousness? This statement occurs in the Sermon on the Mount. Earlier in that sermon Jesus has taught his disciples that the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, the merciful, and the pure in heart will be blessed. He has told his disciples to keep the Jewish law but also to go beyond it by loving their enemies as well as their neighbors. They are also to beware of practicing their piety in public as a way of gaining recognition.  

What would it mean for us to seek first the kingdom of God? We think our world is so different from the ancient world of the gospels. Yet, the challenge to mourn, to be merciful and meek and pure in heart, remains the same. And surely we should not seek public recognition for our piety. We are called not to have the right beliefs about God but to be faithful in the way that we live.  

Grace and peace...Bob