Hi
As an expatriate living and working in Geneva, I am likely to meet members of the diplomatic community from time to time. I might not know their status, as many take the public transport system like the rest of us. But they are around, and with almost every nation in the world having its own ‘Mission’ to the UN; the flavor of Geneva is international.
Based on my understanding of the diplomatic corps, staff who work for the missions represent the interests of their country. And one often presumes that their speech, gestures and sometimes their garb are representative of their native country. Moreover, on entry in some consulates and missions, one is immediately transported to the other country, despite being in a ‘host’ country. I have nurtured the notion that although diplomats live IN a country, their ultimate allegiance is TO their own country. Bear this in mind, as we read today’s Holy Nougat
“They do not belong to this world any more than I do … Just as you sent me into the world, I am sending them into the world.” John 17:16, 18 NLT
My dears, let’s get a few things settled in our hearts:
- First things first – we DO NOT belong here (so let’s stop forcing ourselves to fit in). Many of us wonder why some things don’t work for us anymore, especially since we adopted Heavenly citizenship; it could be that it’s not (no longer) part of our culture.
- If Jesus (our Sovereign) has sent us (citizens of Heaven) out into the world, we are now expected to represent Him and His country, Heaven. We are part of Heaven‘s diplomatic corps
- As members of the diplomatic corps, our speech, actions and dress (especially Love, Righteousness, and Compassion) ought to be representing our home country, Heaven, rather than our ‘host’ country.
- Upon entry in our ‘mission’ (where we work, reside, play and pray), folks ought to be struck by the sense that they are entering Heavenly territory. ie; the presence of God’s Spirit and the values of Heaven ought always to be on display. Not so much that we become overbearing and offensive to others. So much so that others wish to migrate.
- Like many diplomatic mission staff in Geneva, we ought to be accessible – hence us being Sent Out into the world – in such a way that when there is need for us, whether by other citizens or strangers seeking audience with God; others KNOW that they can approach us
- Most diplomatic corps staff undergo multiple postings before returning home. We also can expect multiple postings (ie several assignments) wherever we are. It may be that they are simultaneous, but expect God to have assignments for us to impact the world for Heaven.
So Lord, You call us and send us out. May our lives reflect Your Kingdom here on earth, so others may behold You in us and with us and seek You for themselves. Where we have been prideful about our status, remind us that it’s by Your power and might and for Your glory and not our own. Humble us we pray so we may reflect Your ways more. Hear us we pray dear Y’shua amen
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
