The Daily: Tuesday July 1st, 2025

Read Jeremiah 29:4-11 (NRSV, The Message)


Citizens of a Different Kin-dom

 But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare. Jeremiah 29:7

Devotional
Being a kin-dom citizen doesn't mean withdrawing from society. Instead, we're called to be like the Israelites in Babylon - actively participating in our communities while maintaining our distinct identity. We work, we care for our families, serve our neighbors, and contribute to society's wellbeing by practicing mercy and justice, while remembering our ultimate allegiance. This dual role requires wisdom and discernment, but it's possible to be both faithful to God and constructive members of our earthly communities. We're called to be 'in the world but not of it,' bringing light and hope wherever we go.

Reflection Question
How might your daily decisions and interactions look different if you consciously approached them as a citizen of God's kin-dom first?

"From the very beginning of the followers of Jesus, there was a recognition that we are different than the world around us... We are not citizens of this empire. We are citizens of the Kin-dom of God. We have a different set of values."      Pastor Jason

Prayer
God, help me remember that my primary citizenship is in your kin-dom. Guide me in living out your values while engaging meaningfully with the world around me. Amen.