Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Mark 1:14-15 After John was put in prison, Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the good news of God. "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!"
THE KINGDOM OF GOD IS NEAR
Here in the United States, a new president recently took office in an elaborate inauguration ceremony. In his first days on the job, the new leader indicated that there was urgent business he wanted to take care of right away.
Jesus had an "inauguration" as well. It happened at the Jordan River when John baptized Him. His baptism marked the beginning of His public ministry. Not surprisingly, Jesus too had urgent business that He wanted to take care of right away. He said, "The time has come . . . The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!"
The Lord's time for face-to-face conversation and contact among the people of the earth was limited. His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension would come. After that, He would be gone from their sight. *Now* was the time when the kingdom of God was near. *Now* was the time when Jesus wanted to enter the hearts of many through His word of grace. *Now* was the time when He could sit with His disciples, talk with 5,000 people on a hillside, and offer living water to a woman at a well. The people in those days had a special opportunity to repent and believe the good news -- to turn from their sins and see first hand their Savior who promised to rescue them from their guilt and guarantee them an eternal inheritance in heaven.
Jesus' business is still urgent. It involves our souls. *Now* is the time to repent and believe the good news of the forgiveness of sins. *Today* Christ is near to us in His word and with His Spirit. Today He desires your salvation. Trust in Him and live!
