Kingdom Lessons from a Kids Movie and Bono

Sitting in a crowded movie theatre, I saw three generations: grandparents, parents, and children, all singing along with Scarlett Johansson and Bono in the animated musical Sing 2.

“I still haven’t found what I’m looking for….”

Long after the movie was over, those words kept echoing in my soul (just ask my 10-year old daughter - that song has remained on our playlist ever since).

Google the lyrics and you’ll see this is a deeply spiritual song. It’s dripping with Christian text and imagery. As I pondered these lyrics stuck in my head, the very first words Jesus spoke as he began to preach came to mind:

“Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” (Matthew 4:17)

The modern-day translation is “repent,” however the original text comes from the Greek word metanoia, which means “a transformative change of heart.” In other words, it means to renew one’s mind.

So, that’s why I still haven’t found what I’m looking for. The “what” that I’m looking for is not a singular destination, a one and done event, but rather, it’s an ongoing journey where God is at work, transforming, changing, and renewing my mind. And as God transforms me, I transform the world around me.

It’s an invitation to participate in God’s work. 

The kingdom of heaven has come near and I’m a part of ushering it in.

We first hear about the kingdom of heaven in the creation story, God unfolding his plan for humanity. He sets about creating and we are told it is good – God’s definition of good. 

We – humanity – are in fact the very pinnacle of His creation. Made in his image, we are image-bearers, reflecting our Creator. Now, if that doesn’t give you goosebumps, I don’t know what will! 

Then God gives humanity (us) our mandate, our collective purpose here on earth:  

“Be fruitful and increase in number, fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” (Genesis 1:28)

Do you see that? God entrusts us with creation. He places us in Eden and asks us to cultivate it, to care for it. We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). 

But, what does this look like, practically? 

For me, God has hardwired me to see the best in people, to catch a glimpse of their potential, and to call it out. This gifting comes out in every aspect of my life whether I’m journeying with a candidate as they transition careers or as I’m coaching the local junior athletics team. It’s who He has made me to be and how I bring my giftedness to make the world a better place. 

This is my ministry and I reflect his glory every time I do it. 

So, what does it look like to seek Him first, his kingdom, his rule and his reign? The kingdom of heaven here on earth and we are part of it!

I offer the words straight from the mouth of Bono:

“I believe in the kingdom come

Then all the colours will bleed into one

Bleed into one…”

I see a kingdom come here on earth as it is in heaven. It’s so vibrant, so filled with life and every good gift. It’s one where people are connected to God, the Creator of all things, and to each other. 

It’s a journey, a life-long journey we were made for. And one that God is inviting us into. Will you join him?