Building the Kingdom

by Michele Husfelt

During a visit last fall to my daughter’s house, I walked each day through her neighborhood, noticing several homes under construction. Throughout the three weeks, I noticed the different stages of progress and the many crews laboring under the sweltering Arizona sun. I was struck by the fact I never saw one person working on a house alone. There were always at least two people assigned to each task. Another observation was that there were different crews for each task. At some point each day there would be roofers, solar panel installers, landscapers, drywall specialists, plumbers, framers, masons, and electricians. They all had specific areas they were responsible for completing. And they all worked toward one common goal. Yet no one worked alone.

I walk through each day noticing God’s Kingdom that is under construction. Throughout the days and years, I have noticed the different stages of progress and the many crews laboring here on Earth. Scripture is clear that the Kingdom will not be built by individual laborers, but by those who are working together.

Paul reminds us that, “…as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another. Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness (Romans 12.4-8). Together, we are the body of Christ. Together, we work to build God’s kingdom here on earth.

As we labor out of the strengths and gifts the Spirit has given each of us, building on the foundation of Jesus Christ, the Body is solidly built. In connecting with one another, intentionally committing to the community of believers in which we find ourselves, our work will reap great rewards. Together we can accomplish much. Apart and alone, we feebly attempt to lay one measly brick at a time.

I’m sure there are construction workers who really are jacks of all trades. But I imagine they possess a particular skill or two for which they are more naturally equipped. And I imagine they understand the value of using their skills alongside others who are invested in the same end goal. Let’s ask the Spirit to reveal to us the special gifts God has graced us with, and together with our community discover where God is working and join Him in His work. Let’s seek to uncover what the Master Builder is creating, and experience the excitement and joy of being workers together until His kingdom comes. On earth as it is in heaven.