Monday, July 3rd
Devotional written by Pastor Brian Field, Missions Pastor
SOMETHING BIGGER
But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Philippians 3:20-21
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In early June, I had the privilege of attending Calvary’s first Pre-School graduation. I no longer have any preschoolers in my household, but I was there to bear witness to one five-year-old in particular. Last fall, I got to play a role in helping our Russian partners come to the United States after they had fled their native country after years of living in fear and stress. It was a long and challenging journey as they left everything behind and traveled through several countries without knowing if they would be allowed into the United States. The journey is difficult for adults, but adding a five and eight-year-old into the equation creates even more stress.
After they finally arrived, one way Calvary could support our partner family was through the Pre-School. Their son Ilya enrolled as a student and began the difficult process of emersion and learning the English language.
Fast forward six months, and it is time for the Pre-School graduation. As a part of the ceremony, we opened with the Pledge of Allegiance. You’d never guess who had the honor of leading us all in reciting the Pledge. That’s right, Ilya! And he knocked it out of the park!
What an incredible and emotional moment it was for all of us to witness young Ilya reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag. The flag that represents our nation, is now his hopeful future.
And yet, at the moment, something even more significant was happening. A recognition and gratefulness to God our Father, who had delivered this beautiful family to us and was at work in and through their lives! Realizing that Ilya and his family–while so grateful to be living in the United States–are even more grateful to be a part of God’s family and citizens of His eternal Kingdom!
That is true for each of us. We belong to God’s family, and our true citizenship is in heaven. It is bigger than borders. It is eternal, lasting, and provides the greatest hope of all.
Reflection: Write down 3-5 things you are grateful regarding your US citizenship and another 3-5 things you are grateful for when it comes to being a citizen of God’s Kingdom. What are the similarities and differences? How do those things shape your priorities and view of the world?
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