The final scene in the Biblical story is a vision of shalom. It is a picture of relational and cultural flourishing. People from every tribe and tongue gather in reconciled community, in a complete reversal of the fractured relationships that occurred through the fall (Revelation 7:9; 21:1-5; 22:1-5). It represents a culmination of the whole narrative of scripture, where God is reconciling the world to himself, and inviting his people to join with him in seeking justice and establishing peace in their present contexts. Jesus inaugurated a Kingdom where all people, irrespective of race, colour or background, would be equally loved and valued. This Kingdom would be marked by compassion, justice, forgiveness, peace and self-giving love. At Jesus’ ascension, the responsibility of embodying this Kingdom passed on to all those who would choose to follow him. Empowered by His Spirit, we are called to offer our world a glimpse of God’s future in our present world (John 20:21-22).* FIRST PEOPLE’S HEART Theological reflection *extracted from the CSA First Peoples Heart Document 9
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