Here and Now
February 19
Read: 2 CORINTHIANS 5:20b–6:2
In 2 Corinthians 6:2, Paul is quoting from the prophet Isaiah. But what was an undefined, unknown time for Isaiah, Paul now claims is definite and known. An acceptable time becomes now is the acceptable time. And a day of salvation becomes now is the day of salvation!
The paradox of the kingdom of God is that it is not yet here…and yet, it is already here!
Paul’s words are a message of hope that we can carry with us today even as we live in a world that is still so broken and in need of repair. We can confidently say, even if we only can whisper it, that now is the acceptable time, now is the day of salvation, the kingdom of God is here!
God of heaven and earth, we thank you that you have declared that today is the day you have listened to us, helped us, and delivered us. We praise you that your coming kingdom is already here in our midst. AMEN.
About the Author
Rachel Johnson | NEW JERSEY | I’m a third-year MDiv student at Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (go Steelers!), and I have been a part of ECC churches my whole life, both in Pittsburgh and in Chicago when I studied at North Park University. I have also spent many wonderful summers at Mission Meadows, an ECC camp in western New York, as a camper and a counselor where my faith most especially took root and grew. In my free time, I love to read (particularly anything by J.R.R. Tolkien), go on long walks, and spend quality time with friends. I’m passionate about the good news of the kingdom of God: overwhelming grace, lovingkindness, and justice for all of creation. As I finish seminary, I eagerly look forward to entering into ministry work that not only preaches this good news but works every day to bring it about.
