Through the Kingdom’s Looking Glass

Dr. Robert Gorrell

Reading

Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, “The kingdom of God is not coming in ways that can be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.”
Luke 17:20-21

Reflection

I have a confession to make: I am a Trekkie. There, I said it. I’m an unabashed fan of Star Trek. One of my favorite episodes from the original series is “Mirror, Mirror,” which also happens to be a favorite among thousands of fans.

In this episode, Kirk, Scotty, McCoy, and Uhura are trapped in an alternate universe where the world of Star Trek is turned upside down. Cruelty reigns, and the crew of the Enterprise in this dimension willingly commit acts of torture, murder, and genocide. In this universe, Kirk meets an alternate version of Spock who is part of this culture of cruelty. But slowly, Kirk helps him consider a different way to live. By the end of the episode, this alternate Spock is contemplating a complete change—to help bring peace to his world.

In our current series, Living in an Upside-Down World, we are encouraged to align our lives with the values of God’s kingdom. Like alternate Spock, we are invited to look in the mirror and evaluate ourselves. When Spock saw his reflection, he didn’t like what he saw, so he chose to consider a different path.

Maybe it’s time for you and me to do the same.

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus explains that the kingdom of God isn’t something we can physically see. Instead, it is within us. His words remind us that God’s kingdom is already here—and that we, as his followers, are called to be its representatives in the world.

Prayer:
Lord, give me the courage to look in the mirror today. Reveal the changes I need to make so that I may faithfully represent your kingdom. Amen.