Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This statement sets the stage for our understanding of God’s kingdom. Unlike earthly kingdoms that rely on power, wealth, and influence, God’s kingdom is spiritual and transcendent. May we live in such a way that others see and experience God’s kingdom through our words, actions, and attitudes. Let us continually seek His presence, allowing His kingdom to reign in every aspect of our lives until the day when His kingdom comes in its fullness.

A woman, after 18 years of pain a debilitation, was healed by Jesus! Whether through physical healing, spiritual renewal, or acts of compassion, the glorious works of Jesus inspire us to glorify God with sincere and joyful thanksgiving. May we, like the woman and the crowd, recognize and rejoice in the marvelous things Jesus is doing in our midst, ever grateful for His boundless grace and mercy. Living lives of praise and worship to God!

Today we find that a fig tree that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut down. It is a parable that has significance for all of us today! It appears that if we aren’t bearing fruit we will be cut down as well… Yet, there is hope! Even for the barren fig tree, there was a chance for renewal, for growth, and for fruitfulness. God offers us the same opportunity through His Son Jesus Christ. Through repentance, prayer, and a deepening of our relationship with God, we can experience spiritual renewal and begin to bear fruit that is for our good and that glorifies God.