When we are called into the Kingdom of God, we are like new immigrants in a foreign land. Our baptism parallels taking an oath of citizenship, where we pledge allegiance to our new homeland under Christ as King. Emerging from the waters of baptism, with hands laid upon us, we are considered citizens of heaven, yet we remain as infants in understanding and conformity to God's way of life. Like immigrants, we still bear the marks of our old ways, carrying the accent and habits of the past. It requires a lifetime of transformation to adopt the traits of the godly, to reflect the image of Jesus Christ Whom we are to emulate. Conversion is a complete turnaround, initiated and sustained by God's grace. It is a total shift from self-seeking to humility, from sinful ways to childlike trust and submission to Him. This transformation is not something we can achieve on our own; only God has the power to turn us around and set us on the path to His Kingdom. Conversion involves both a change of mind and a change in conduct, turning from old loyalties to serve the true and living God through our actions and obedience. This process of conversion is ongoing, with episodes throughout our lives where we must be reconverted. We often stray, requiring us to turn back to the right way through God's guidance. Even as citizens of heaven, we may fall into specific sins or wrong paths, needing restoration in particular areas. Conversion is not a one-time event but a continual journey of transformation, affecting every facet of our lives, as we strive to align with God's instruction and way of life. As we witness conversion in others, whether individuals or groups, it brings joy to see lives transformed by responding to God's truth. Yet, we must recognize that not all are converted to the same extent or in the same areas. Patience and forbearance are essential as we support one another, allowing God time to work in each person's life. Bearing each other's burdens, we aid in this transformative process, preparing ourselves and our brethren for the Kingdom of God.

The Christian life demands new loyalties, often requiring us to forge a new family within the church. Many find themselves as the only ones called from their particular families, and over time, they may have to forsake those ties in a sense, discovering little in common even with their own blood due to the dramatic divergence in ways of life. Within the church, however, they find a new identity, a new purpose, and a new way of life. Though blood ties are strong, Jesus warns that our devotion to Him and to God's family must be stronger. This devotion is an act of will, a deliberate choice to prioritize God above all else, affirming that He is the first priority in life, and we will go where He directs us to go.