The path of the kingdom of heaven

 

Paolo Cugini

 

Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord”, will enter the kingdom of heaven (Mt 7:21).

O men and women who seek meaning in the folds of your existence, listen! The kingdom of heaven does not manifest itself like the kingdoms of this world, it does not rise up behind stone walls nor is it founded upon thrones of power. It is not a reality that escapes the human eye, nor a shadow that dissolves in the hereafter. Instead, it is a path that opens amidst the streets of daily life, a new way of being, a breath that transforms our relationships with others and with ourselves. Whoever wishes to enter this kingdom must listen to the Word and live it. This is where the journey begins, this is where the walk continues. It is not a matter of adhering to a doctrine or professing an outward creed: the kingdom is opened only to those who allow the Word of Jesus to illuminate the path, breaking the yoke of instincts that imprison us within the circle of our selfishness. Just as the sun breaks through the clouds, so the Word enlightens the heart and frees us from the logic of possession and domination.

Here is the secret that is revealed: a renewed humanity, generous and selfless, giving itself without measure, serving with humility and care. In this gift, in this gratuity, the kingdom of heaven is revealed. It is not a place, but a state of the soul, a relationship that becomes closeness, care, compassion. Whoever lives the Word sows light, reaps peace. There exists a secret path, traced within the fabric of history, that is revealed only to those who desire it, to those who commit themselves with burning will to put into practice what they hear. It is the will that opens the door, that transforms the Word into revelation, into illumination.

In a world that often wears the garments of darkness, a luminous way is lit: the possibility of existing in a new, different, radical way. This difference is the true kingdom of heaven, the prophecy that is fulfilled every time someone chooses to live according to the logic of service, of giving, of free love.

O you who read, the kingdom of heaven calls upon you. Do not wait for it to be a future event: it is already here, every time you choose to be light instead of shadow, every time the Word becomes action. Ancient wisdom says, “Whoever seeks finds”; whoever lives the Gospel discovers the joy that no power can take away. Walk, then, on the hidden path; make your life the place where heaven can be reflected upon earth.