September 4, 2023
The Unexpected Builders of God’s Kingdom: An Inspirational Journey from Marginalized to Magnified

In a world that often equates value with capability, society rewards individuals based on merit. We laud those who excel, those who bring innovative ideas to the table, and those who drive missions forward. This is the rhythm of the kingdom of earth – every institution, whether a business, school, or even a community, pivots on this principle. Their very existence is rooted in a mission, and the more you can contribute, the more you are celebrated and valued.
Yet, a profound message woven throughout the Gospels challenges this perspective.
When Jesus proclaimed in Mark 1:15, “‘The time has come,’ he said. ‘The Kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!’”, He wasn’t just announcing a new era. He was heralding the birth of a kingdom unlike any we’d seen.
You’d expect that establishing God’s dominion on Earth, a mission so grand, would require the crème de la crème of society. But God, in His unparalleled wisdom, chose differently.
Instead of the esteemed scholars or societal elites, Jesus sought out the fishermen, the tax collectors, and the marginalized. It’s a choice that bewildered many. Why would the Savior of humanity entrust such a monumental mission to those the world deemed ‘unfit’?
The Divine Valuation
This choice reveals a pivotal truth: In God’s Kingdom, those often perceived as contributing the least are, in fact, valued the most.
This paradox is the very essence of God’s grace. While the world might view orphans and the broken as lesser, God’s Kingdom cherishes them. James 1:27 is a testament to this, emphasizing that true religion is to “look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
In the divine eyes, these ‘outcasts’ aren’t just a part of the Kingdom. They are its treasures.
A Transformation Beyond Value
But the journey doesn’t stop at acknowledgment. Jesus, in his boundless love, transforms these lives. He didn’t merely comfort and value the marginalized; He empowered them. Acts 4:13 (ESV) stands as a testament: “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus.”
This illustrates that in God’s Kingdom, those who the world dismisses can become the very cornerstones of His grand design.
As we align ourselves with this divine intent, championing the downtrodden, we’re not just witnessing transformation. We’re participating in it. The journey from being overlooked to becoming instrumental in God’s Kingdom is miraculous.
So, in moments of doubt or challenge, as we humbly tread the path of Christ, let’s find solace in a simple truth: Today’s “insignificant” might just be tomorrow’s beacon of hope. After all, in God’s hands, the marginalized don’t just find value – they become invaluable.