Matthew 10:7
And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’
Homily:
When you hear, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand”, what emotion does it provoke?
Fear? Fear based on the uncertainty of judgment.
Joy? Joy based on the realization of your expectation.
When you say, “The kingdom of heaven is at hand”, what emotion do you intend to provoke?
Fear? Fear as a wake-up call that judgment is near.
Joy? Joy as a reassurance that bliss is near.
When God’s kingdom is at hand, what emotion do you think He will expect from His children?
Fear? Fear that we will not be found worthy to enter.
Joy? Joy that we will soon be reconciled with our Father.
Is fear really what is required?