It’s easy to get tangled in the narratives of “who belongs where” in this world. But the truth is God cares about all of our lives and our ability to flourish no matter where we live.

As Christians, our citizenship in heaven far outweighs our citizenship within any nation here on earth. Having this kingdom perspective should change the way we see the world. It should change the way we look at our neighbors near and far. Knowing that this world isn’t our home and that an eternal one awaits us, we should seek to ensure the flourishing of all image-bearers, not just those with our same earthly citizenship. Jesus gave us a new way forward. A way that breaks down every dividing wall and opens a path for all to be seen and saved.

Thoughtful Questions

1. Have you ever imagined what heaven will be like? What does Revelation 7:9 tell us about who will be there?
2. For decades the American church has sent thousands of missionaries overseas to share and spread the gospel. Churches, shelters, and government organizations along our southern borders all report dozens of different nationalities coming to our U.S. doorstep, tired, hungry, soft-hearted, and hopeful about new life. Still, many think of ‘missions’ as sending people beyond the borders of the United States. Why do you think many of us think about missions in this way?