Scripture
Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jews. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

Observation
Jesus is interrogated by Pilate prior to being sent for crucifixion. Pilate seems confused by the man who is charged with being a king of the Jews.

Jesus tells him that His kingdom is of a different order to earthly kingdoms. It is not won by physical force, but originates from a different place and with different values.

Application
This description of Jesus' conversation with Pilate is very revealing. Pilate is the agent of the world's most effective and brutal empire. Jesus is, seemingly, just another working class Jewish rabble-rouser. Yet, it is Pilate who is on the defensive and Jesus who is in control.

Jesus' kingdom is greater than the kingdoms of this world. His kingdom does not depend on military might nor on political power. It is a spiritual force that quietly transforms one heart at a time, reforming whole nations from the inside out.

When we feel like we are in a minority in our society and apparently weak and powerless, that is the way it should be. But, the weakness of the Kingdom of God is ultimately stronger than the greatest powers this world can muster.

Prayer
My Lord, I confess today that you are my King. You alone will I serve. Amen.