The Coming Kingdom: Remember and Proclaim

Luke 22.1-23: As we continue through Luke and approach the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus the plot thickens.  As it does we see the involvement of Satan in one of Jesus’ very own disciples, Judas, who leads him to betray Jesus.  This is all in the works with the religious leaders as Jesus sits with Judas to celebrate Passover.  I pray we are moved afresh by this picture of Jesus on the night before his death setting before himself the joy of his coming kingdom, telling his disciples that what he is signifying tonight in the meal and accomplishing tomorrow on the cross will one day be fulfilled in the kingdom—a kingdom of people ransomed from every tongue and tribe and people and nation. Then he adds this: I'm not going to eat it till that day comes. You eat it to remember me and keep your hope strong and empower yourselves for mission. But I am going to wait until I can eat it new with you and with all the ransomed that you will gather from every tongue and tribe and people and nation.  Let us remember and be strengthened by this word today.