Read: Matthew 4:12-17; 11:1-6
Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (4:17)
One of my earliest memories was opening my first Christmas gifts. My parents gathered my older sister and me in front of our Christmas tree. She said, “Time for presents!” A brightly wrapped package was placed in my hands. I didn’t know what any of this meant, so I couldn’t imagine the wonderful things that were in store for me.
Jesus began his earthly ministry with the words of our key verse today. His Jewish audience thought they knew what it meant. For centuries, their prophets had issued similar warnings that heaven’s judgment was coming. These warnings were intended to inspire fear. But “repent” is not just a call to renounce sinful ways. It’s an invitation to return to God’s best way. Jesus came to offer the world heaven’s wonders, not heaven’s judgment.
Jesus does far more than provide sinners safe passage to heaven. He initiates a reunion of heaven on earth. When Jesus says, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand,” he means quite literally that the wonders of heaven are now available to the inhabitants of earth. Jesus’s miracles are signs of what’s in store for the redeemed. They’re also demonstrations of the potential for life to be restored for all who return to God. Faith in Jesus promises not only a heavenly afterlife, but moments of heavenly wonder in this life. When you belong to Jesus—body and soul, in life and in death—heaven is always at hand.
As you pray, ask Jesus to open your eyes to the wonders of heaven.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon
Ben Van Arragon is a preacher and writer based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
