Being Near the Kingdom of God and Being Inside the Kingdom of God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season: Third Week : Friday*

*Gospel : Mk 12:28-34*

*First Reading :Hos 14:2-10*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 81:6c-8a, 8bc-9, 10-11ab, 14 and 17*

*Being Near the Kingdom of God and Being Inside the Kingdom of God*

*1) Near, But Not Yet Inside*

The scribe had intellectual knowledge of God's truth, and he understood that love for God and neighbor is greater than external rituals. 

However, Jesus did not say, “You are in the Kingdom of God,” but rather, “You are not far from it.” 

This implies that being near the Kingdom is not the same as being inside it.

It is possible to have theological knowledge, moral insight, and even religious sincerity, yet still fall short of entering the Kingdom. 

Faith is not just about understanding—it requires a personal response to Christ.

*2) The Kingdom Requires Personal Commitment*

While the scribe understood the greatest commandments, the key question remains: did he follow Jesus? 

The Kingdom of God is not just about knowing the truth but about surrendering to it.

Jesus is the fulfillment of the Law (Matthew 5:17), and true entrance into the Kingdom comes through Him (John 14:6).

Knowing what is right is not enough—do I live by it? 

Have I fully committed myself to Christ, or am I still hesitating at the threshold of His Kingdom?

*3) Examples of Those Who Were "Near" but Not "Inside"*

*The Rich Young Ruler* (Mark 10:17-22): He wanted eternal life and had kept the commandments, but he was unwilling to let go of his wealth to follow Jesus. He was near—but he walked away.

*Nicodemus* (John 3:1-21): He sought Jesus at night and acknowledged His divine authority. However, Jesus told him he needed to be born again to enter the Kingdom.

*Judas Iscariot:* He spent years with Jesus but never truly gave his heart to Him. Proximity to Jesus is not the same as being in His KingdomKingdo

*4) Signs of Being Inside the Kingdom*

Those who are inside the Kingdom:

✔ Have faith in Christ (Romans 10:9)

✔ Experience spiritual rebirth (John 3:3-5)

✔ Live in obedience and love (John 14:15)

✔ Bear fruit in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23)

If someone examined my life, would they see evidence that I am truly inside the Kingdom?

*5) Jesus’ Invitation: Step from "Near" to "Inside"*

Jesus always leaves the door open. The scribe was close—but did he step through? 

We are all invited to move beyond mere admiration of Jesus into full surrender and discipleship.

If I sense that I am *only* near the Kingdom, what is stopping me from stepping fully inside today?

Lord Help me to step into your accounts 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*