Luke 6:17-49.  By this time, a “great crowd” of disciples had joined the usual multitude seeking healing and deliverance.  They recognized their need for Jesus, so came to him as poor, hungry and weeping (20-21).  Jesus taught them that their condition of dependence was not a mistake.  God has a kingdom that they can enter now.  Entering that kingdom now will mean “great reward” when he returns from heaven to set up that kingdom on earth (23, 35).

But preparing for tomorrow’s kingdom means a dramatic redirection of their lives.  Being Christ’s disciple means loving your enemies (27-36).  It means allowing the Holy Spirit to judge you, and change you instead of trying to change others (37-45).  It means building your house on the solid ground of Jesus’ words, so that tomorrow’s flood does not destroy it (46-49).

LORD, teach us to live in tomorrow’s kingdom today.  Change us so that we might reflect your love and integrity.