Builders of the Kingdom

Construction is a well respected profession. We might even say it has solid biblical roots: the creation story reveals God as the master architect and engineer with a highly artistic flair. Joseph and Jesus were carpenters. St. Paul often uses the analogy of building. "According to the grace of God given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But each one must be careful how he builds upon it, for no one can lay a foundation other than the one that is there, namely, Jesus Christ." (1 Cor 3: 10-11).
We have been called through our baptism into a community where mutual support, mutual building up of each other is expected of us. "The kingdom of God is not a matter of food and drink, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the holy Spirit; whoever serves Christ in this way is plesing to God and approved by others. Let us then pursue what leads to peace and to building up one another." (Rom 14: 17-19). Talking about our faith, talking about Jesus with our friends, simple but often not major conversation pieces like the weather or sports, or listening to another's tales, or offering advice or constructive criticism, or being peaceful and joyful, are some of the ways in which we can support one another and build up the kingdom. Let us begin today by spending time talking to Jesus, and then talking about him to others or radiating the peace that he gives through our actions. If he were our best friend, we'd not be ashamed but happy to do so.
Bro. Rene