Isaiah 45.1,4-6・Ps. 96.3+4, 7+8, 9+13・1 Thessalonians 1.1-5・Matthew 22.15-21
Dual Citizenship No More
One Citizenship in God`s Kingdom
We have been reflecting on the image of the Kingdom of God (the Kingdom of Heaven) for few weeks now. We continuously learn too on how to be better citizens of this Kingdom, (1)here and now, as well as (2)in time God make all things complete and perfect. Last Sunday, we were able to share and somehow able to deeply understand each one`s role as member of a faith-community journeying towards the Kingdom of Heaven.
Let us then again pick-up few emphases about each one`s role towards the “fullness of time. We remember the “inclusive character” of the Church (re-opening our church doors for all, and providing more available seats for all. We remember the importance of maintaining a prayerful atmosphere inside our Church. We create an allegiance to present our Church as a conducive place for all ages. Thus, the People of God are committed in (1)bringing forth Christ`s joy & peace, and (2)creating plenty of beautiful experiences of love, mercy, understanding, respect & acceptance, and forgiveness. giving voice to the voiceless, providing a place to freely exist and share God`s Word, and somehow allowing wholeheartedly in proper time and space different ways of expressing Catholic faith according to each one`s culture and origin).
All the above lessons indeed point into a commitment to something in which we are deeply involved.
We are at the same time citizens of the political territory with a government well established, Citizenship, as well as temporary residence and workplace consideration in our present time suggest that we become automatically involved and is indeed deeply involved in a particular country and society. Our automatic involvement entails both rights and responsibilities. Each one is called to loyalty and obedience. Thus, it further entails following/abiding to the rules and regulations set by men and women in legal position in taking care of people of his/her territory, and in assuring the well-being, safety and security of all citizens, and the territory itself. Each citizen is expected to cooperate to the government that continues to promote quality of life in the community. The political leaders receive necessary incentives for their clean conscience and every responsibility well done. Just as the citizens too benefit out of good governance, the same citizens of the government share a part of what he/she has and what is legally agreed due (tax as such) for the maintenance and progress of the political territory.
Our deep involvement in the life of the Church and in all Her activities however inspire us to be more observant and critical. Let us accept our calling to become authentic moral and spiritual persons. We can be in conflict however to a particular political governance when it`s call to obedience and loyalty to laws and activities already ceases in promoting common respect, well-being, and human dignity. Just as Jesus was tested by worldly affairs and motives, let us all too be wise in responding to the test and questions of those who are indifferent to, and unwilling to acquire citizenship in the Kingdom of God.
May the spirit of service we already have for our neighbors in the society at large bring us further to faith, and may the faith we already have bring to a sincere/authentic service.
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