12 What is the kingdom of God like?

Gospel

Luke 17:20-25

The kingdom of God is among you

Asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was to come, Jesus gave them this answer, ‘The coming of the kingdom of God does not admit of observation and there will be no one to say, “Look here! Look there!” For, you must know, the kingdom of God is among you.’

He said to the disciples, ‘A time will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man and will not see it. They will say to you, “Look there!” or, “Look here!” Make no move; do not set off in pursuit; for as the lightning flashing from one part of heaven lights up the other, so will be the Son of Man when his day comes. But first he must suffer grievously and be rejected by this generation.’

Reflection

Jesus reminds us that the Kingdom of God is not a distant event or a secret spectacle to be deciphered through observation. Instead, it is a present reality, active in our midst through love and the Holy Spirit. While we often seek grand signs, Christ calls us to recognize His reign here and now. However, this glory is inseparable from the Cross. Just as Jesus suffered before His triumph, we must find God in the present rather than chasing shadows.

Reflection Question

Am I so focused on searching for future signs or external validation that I fail to see the ways God is already moving within and around me today?

Prayer

Lord, open my eyes to see Your Kingdom already at work in my heart and community. Help me to remain steadfast in faith and patient in trial, trusting that You are always near. Amen.

Comments

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