Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world, my servants would have been fighting, that I might not be delivered over to the Jews. But my kingdom is not from the world.”  John 18:36

He lived a lifetime in only thirty three years.  He walked the rugged terrain of deserts and country roads.  He recruited fishermen and tax collectors to be part of his mission. Word of His miracles spread like wild fire across a land devastated by poverty and oppression.  He healed the sick and gave life back to the dead.  He restored souls, gave hope, promised eternity to all and completed the work assigned Him by His Father, God.

All of this in thirty three years.

As we look at the world we live in today, we wonder what’s happened in the last two thousand years.  The world continues to be reft with poverty.  We can’t turn around without seeing the results of hatred, violence and broken minds and hearts.  Mental illness is at an all time high.  Men of thirty three are confused about their role in the family.  They struggle with their identity, because of what the world tells them they should be. Everything has turned upside down.

What is this world to us?  We’re born into existence, not by our own choice.  We don’t choose our parents.  We don’t choose our circumstances.  We have little say in what our future holds.  The only thing we can be sure of, is that life will end one day – in this world.

Still, the Son of God left his heavenly throne, two thousand years ago.  He submitted himself to the painful birthing process; calloused his hands as He worked alongside His stepfather; witnessed the plight of His fellow man and His own people; studied the scriptures (which He wrote) and was tempted in every way, but never sinned.  When it was all over and He drew His final breath He uttered these words, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

He returned to His rightful place in Heaven and assures us of the same destiny.  When this veil of tears ends for us, it’s just the beginning of an eternity in paradise.  This is what He wanted for us in the first place.

What have you done with the last thirty three years of your life?