June 4 Kingdom Rush?

Luke 16:16-17 “The Law and the Prophets were proclaimed until John. Since that time, the good news of the kingdom of God is being preached, and everyone is forcing his way into it. 17 It is easier for heaven and earth to disappear than for the least stroke of a pen to drop out of the Law.”
 
WHAT is the meaning of Jesus’ words, “Everyone is forcing his way into (the kingdom of God)?” Do you think this is true, given the percentage of people in church versus the number who do not attend? Very few churches are crowded “at the gates” on Sunday morning. In that context, Jesus’ words would not be accurate. But let’s remember his word is true and understand his teaching.
    Have you ever tried to get into a movie or some event without paying for a ticket? Perhaps you thought you had a better way to see the performance as you disobeyed the rules. If you were discovered, though, you were forced out.  
    The Pharisees thought they could enter the kingdom through their own “force” as they were zealous for the law, even to the point they disobeyed the law’s true purpose and meaning. Surely, God wants zealous rule followers in his kingdom! Others came to Jesus for physical healing, surging and pressing against him. But they did not seek spiritual health. Others sought to force their way as they tried to form God’s commands to their preferences. The parable of the rich man who rejected Jesus’ way to “sell everything you have and give to the poor.” (Luke 18:22) Perhaps some, too, thought that entering the kingdom would turn their lives to ease and plenty.
    These ways into the kingdom are mankind’s forceful ways. We want to get into the Kingdom of God, refusing to “pay the ticket” of repentance, confession, sacrifice, love, mercy, compassion and sacrifice. 
    Through Jesus’ way, we know the way is costly to our own lives. We may have to leave our home and family. There is a cross or two or three to bear on our discipleship journey. Battles are fought against the foes who seek to destroy God’s Word on earth. Indeed, kingdom living is no easy, self-defined matter. We cannot force entrance in our own way but must go in Jesus’ way.
    This is why so few are in church and even fewer commit to sacrificially follow Christ.
 
Prayer: I pray, Lord, I understand the way to you, and I am willing to walk on your path only. In Jesus’ name, amen.