Reading: Luke 8:1-18

Jesus said on at least one occasion that we are, first of all, to seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

In this chapter, though, we have this recorded:

“And it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve were with him” (1).

I wonder what He showed and preached.

What are the glad tidings of God’s kingdom?

I think of things like these: forgiveness, purpose, cleanness, wholeness, satisfaction, peace, sacrifice, fellowship with God.

And joy.

That goes along so naturally with the gladness of these tidings.

Sometimes it seems like I don’t get my share of joy and gladness.

That’s my own fault.

Because I’ve carelessly allowed my heart to turn from focusing on and ardently looking for the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Because I’ve ceased to be a panting hart.

from Luke 8:16

A little bit more from Luke 8: Having Heard the Word