The experiences we’ve had in our lives certainly affect our understanding of the words we read in Scripture, don’t they? I think that many people must brace themselves when they read or hear the words of Jesus, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” Many of us have heard preachers in their sermons tie in their call for us to repent with graphic denunciations of all that we might have done wrong to demonstrate our need to repent. Then those same preachers follow up with threats of hellfire and brimstone if we don’t repent. So, a first reading of Jesus’ words this morning might evoke for many of us very uncomfortable feelings associated with wrong-doing and with fears of punishment.
Based on our culture and our experience Jesus’ words “the kingdom of heaven has come near” may also suggest punishment. The use of the words “kingdom of heaven” was and is a way that Jews can reverently refer to You-Know-Who without saying the name that is too holy to say directly. Read more…