Kingdom is a 'How' Not a 'Where'

Scripture: Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you I will not drink again of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.” Matthew 26:26-29

Observation: In the first eating of the Lord's Supper, Jesus states that he will not drink wine again he does so with the disciples in God's kingdom. This reference to the kingdom of God is always confusing because it is used many, many time by Jesus, but is never really quite explained. Also interestingly, it is often described not as a place, but as actions ... "the kingdom of God is like" ... a man who scatters seed; or one who finds a pearl; or one who buys a field to own the hidden treasure; or a woman looking for a lost coin; or a rich man who invites strangers to a wedding. So when Jesus says he won't drink wine until he is in God's kingdom, when and where is that?

Based on other contexts - and not based on any study of this section - I'd say the kingdom is the beginning of the church. It is with the founding of the church, and the first actions of the original disciples, that they will start scatting seed, sacrificing to bring others to God, seeking lost souls, and reaching out to the Gentiles in the name of Jesus. In other words, God's kingdom is about how we live, not where we live.

Application: This is the second time in two days that I have considered the idea that the kingdom of God already exists on earth. It doesn't always feel that way, that's for sure. However, this is the "age" whereby we can fully understand God throughout the entire earth. This is the time when there is the most conflict in opinions related to God, with most people on earth truly choosing what they believe one way or another. And this is the age where the church of Jesus exists across all boundaries of land, nations, and people.

So in this - God's kingdom - may I focus on living in that context. May I live as if I truly am ruled by God, as my King, living in his kingdom, with his rules, and his protection. And may I behave as one who is therefore bringing the kingdom into existence, by loving others, reaching others, seeking others, rejoicing in salvation, reaping where others sow, scattering seed, sacrificing for one treasure, and awaiting patiently and diligently for heaven on earth to return.

Prayer: Lord, thy kingdom come, and thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. May we serve you as our great king and Lord, which you are, and bask in the blessing of your gracious rule and strong protection. And with your kingdom established, may heaven come to earth soon. Amen.