Citizenship

A friend who is currently defined as 'a foreign national', born outside the UK, is seeking to become a British Citizen. Having lived in this country for 5 years, and in gainful employment, she and her husband took the Citizenship Test' yesterday. This consisted in answering some questions - mostly multiple guess/choice type - about assorted aspects of the British scene. The ones she relayed to us would have stumped most British citizens that I know! Nonetheless, if she passed the test, and waits another year, she may well be granted the citizenship she desires.
Citizenship is quite a theme in the New Testament, and to be a Roman Citizen was highly prized. But most members of the fledgling Christian community were no-hopers, as far as the values of the day. St. Peter writes to remind of them of some profound contrasts. 'To God’s elect, exiles scattered throughout the provinces of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia and Bithynia, who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to be obedient to Jesus Christ and sprinkled with his blood: Grace and peace be yours in abundance.' (1 Peter 1.1-2)
As far as the Roman Empire was concerned, these Christians were exiles, rootless and vagrants. But from God's point of view, they are chosen and elected to know Him. Peter goes on to describe what has brought about the change.
'Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.' (1 Peter 1.3-5)
From new birth to receiving an inheritance in glory - from the cradle to the grave and beyond - our citizenship is a gift from God's mercy, provided for us through the death & resurrection of Jesus.
So who am I today? I am a citizen of heaven, called to live that way. I trust that is true of you too!
Best wishes,
Richard