A good deal of what goes on in the world today doesn't look much like the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God is love, joy, and peace. The kingdom of God is righteousness and truth and faith in God. And from all this emerges a certain life-style that honors God and which is honored by God.

But everywhere there is evil; many are almost afraid to live. Never has the crime rate been so high, especially in crimes of violence. Our generation is growing up with international terrorism as a way of life. And in the face of all this we Christians pray, " Thy kingdom come."

The kingdom comes first of all in the heart. More than reformation, the coming of the kingdom of God is transformation. Things have to change inside us before there can be any hope of change around us. The responsibility is shocking. When the kingdom comes within us, hate gives way to love, viciousness is overcome by without God and hope in the world, we receive full assurance that with God in our hearts all is well and that the kingdoms of the world someday truly will be the kingdom of our Lord. And with that assurance comes the will to work for the kingdom, living out the new life it lights within us. "The kingdom of God is within you" --what a challenge!!