Entering the Kingdom of God

Entering the Kingdom of God
Pentecost 21; Mark 10:17-31
Children, how hard it is
to enter the kingdom of God,
and yet how simple.

Riches get in the way
because getting and spending
obscures the simplicity
of growing and making
and subtracts from moments 
of stilled awareness.
Possessing robs giving of mutuality;
where then is shared gratitude
for all that is given?

Achieving gets in the way
because it compares us to others
and competes for more.
It desires acknowledgement
accountability and aspiration
when all that is needed
is our simple uniqueness,
knowing we are loved
for who we are as children of God,
and not for our achievements.

Power gets in the way
for power over others
uses and manipulates,
serving its own agendas.
God’s kingdom belongs 
to those who are vulnerable,
setting aside entitlement,
not too proud to serve
respectfully, open heartedly.

Children, how hard it is
to enter the kingdom of God,
and yet how simple.
Simply breathe, be still,
be open and aware:
you are already there.
	Barbara Messner 10/10/2024