Building Christ’s Peaceable Kingdom

Author

Elder Jim Fairchild

Seeking God’s will on earth as it is in heaven is to try to make God’s kingdom tangible among us, in this life. Zion (Christ’s Peaceable Kingdom) is a world safe for the endangered and vulnerable, a place where the lamb and the lion shall lie down together without any anger. 

"The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them."
​ Isaiah 11:6 NRSV

Early in the history of the Restoration movement, the call to share the fullness of the gospel throughout the world and to “seek to bring forth and establish the cause of Zion”, attracted many disciples, and accounts for their willingness to make so many sacrifices.

​With faith in Christ, we face the future in hopeful longing, and with the prayer that Jesus taught us to pray: “Thy kingdom come! Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”  This is another familiar scripture that has become too common, and as a result has lost much of its meaning. The Lord’s Prayer expresses our commitment to herald God’s Peaceable Kingdom on Earth, the Zion of our hopes.  Not at some future date, but NOW; in this time and in this place!

“God calls whomever God calls from among committed disciples, according to their gifts, to serve and reach all humankind.”
D&C 165:4a

As Christian disciples, we are called to spread the Gospel, sharing the love and hope of Christ with the world (Matthew 28:19-20). This isn't a task we have to undertake alone. In fact, friendship is a powerful tool in fulfilling the Great Commission.

And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."
Matthew 28:18-20 NRSV

Building Christ’s Peaceable Kingdom involves generously and compassionately offering witness, ministry, sacraments, and community life that reconciles and restores people to right or righteous relationships with God, themselves and others.

The gospel of Jesus Christ emphasizes the importance of community in creating a space of love and care that is essential for the well-being of all individuals.

We need all the help we can get. It takes a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to creating a world that is free from hatred, violence, and discrimination.

“You who are my disciples must be found continuing in the forefront of those organizations and movements which are recognizing the worth of persons and are committed to bringing the ministry of my Son to bear on their lives.”
D&C 151:9

As we journey through life, we encounter different people who have diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Meeting new friends who share our values and beliefs is a blessing that we should always be grateful for. These friends can help us grow in faith, support us in times of need, and inspire us to follow Christ in Mission!

Dear Lord, thank you for new friends who can help you and me build your Peaceable Kingdom. Amen

In conclusion, the blessing of friendship, especially those rooted in shared faith, is a gift we should cherish. These relationships provide support, encouragement, and inspiration to grow in our faith and to participate in the Great Commission. Let's be grateful for the friends who walk alongside us, helping us become better versions of ourselves and empowering us to share Christ's love with the world. Nurturing these friendships is an investment in our spiritual growth and a testament to the power of community in spreading God's message.

He said, “Freely, freely, you have received: freely, freely give.  Go in my name, and because you believe, others will know that I live.”
Community of Christ Sings Hymn #62