Philippine Politics

We are living in exciting times. The election season is heating up. People are fired up as they campaign for their candidates online and in person. The results have been interesting. However, after all the endorsements, after this election season, no matter which candidate is inaugurated, We should all be reminded that we are all under one king and his name is Jesus. Everyone is called to let Jesus reign as the king.

Why? Because this is actually a hint to the core content of the Gospels. Mark already states this in the first chapter!

Of course, we read this in Matthew too.

Evangelion & Evangelium

In these two instances, both Evangelists designate Jesus’ teachings with the Greek term evangelion. which means “good news.”

You can just feel the cheerful positive good vibes of the word evangelion. It is not unlike the good news of finally experiencing in person graduation rites. Moreover, evangelion is often associated with the Latin term evangelium. This term figures into the vocabulary of Roman emperors. They see themselves as lords, redeemers, and saviors of world. Evangelium is not just cheerful good news. It is meant to be a saving message that could change the world.

The evangelium of the Roman emperors is like the the good news of Filipino politicians in the form of platforms and promises. Filipinos, with our desire to be lifted from poverty, take their promises to heart. There are those who are caught in hero worship. They defend their candidates passionately. Many are fighting against each other and acting as if this was the ultimate battle between good and evil. However, beyond Roman emperors and Filipino politicians, for Christians, evangelium is not just as an announcement but an action as well.

The Evangelists put forth the truth that emperors, kings, and presidents can only speak of change. They cannot make change. They don’t really live up to the word, evangelium. It is not the emperors who will save the world.

The Good News

So, what is the saving message of the Gospel. What is the core content of Christ’s preaching? Here it is…

This is the actual core of Jesus’ words and works. The phrase “Kingdom of God” is mentioned 122 times in the new Testament as a whole. 99 of these passages are found in the Synoptic Gospels. 90 of those 99 texts were spoken by Jesus himself. So, this salvific world changing message is clearly very important and it begs the questions. Is Kingdom of God really at hand here and now? Is God reigning in our lives?

These are very difficult questions to answer considering over 3.27 million Filipinos are jobless. 70.6% of businesses closed during the pandemic. Is God really reigning with this economy during this pandemic? Is the Kingdom of God really at hand when 26 million are living in poverty?How are people feeding their families?

Faith & Conversion

We have to consider that the core message “The Kingdom of God is at hand” is not just a message but also a call-to-action that moves us towards faith and conversion. It is a call to realize that despite our circumstances God is real. He exist! He is present. God is active! That revelation activates our faith and drives us to make Him our King.

This renewed faith changes us. Conversion starts from within. The King’s love transforms us then we start loving ourselves more. We start loving others by caring for the poor, feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting the sick and the imprisoned. Then we change our environment and the people one good word and work at a time.

I believe this is how we answer Jesus’ evangelion. This is how we participate in God’s Kingdom. With every word and deed, we become the change the world needs.

So, friends, here’s the invitation. The Kingdom of God is at hand so let God Reign in your life.

Thank you so much for reading. Do check out my YouTube video on this particular topic too.

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