Happy Holy Week! Do you feel like you’re getting it? The nature of the Kingdom, that is! Jesus has gone to great lengths to set the stage for his disciples to understand the kingdom of God and to give them authority and understanding as he faces his death.
At this point in Matthew’s Gospel, we’re halfway through Jesus’ final major discourse (called the Olivet discourse, as he’s talking with his disciples on the Mount of Olives). His audience, Matthew tells us, is just his disciples. This is Jesus’ last chance to teach them all they need to know before he is tried and crucified. Of course, their concluding questions are about the final days: “When will all this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?” (Matthew 24:3).
Jesus won’t answer these questions for the disciples. In fact, he makes it very clear that no one will know the time or the sign. Instead, he encourages that they wisely use the time they have and anything God has entrusted to them.
I was recently chatting with a gal who told me this particular part of Matthew’s Gospel has never sat right with her. She named fear, condemnation, and some self-doubt. If that’s you, you’re not alone. And these parables were never meant to bring fear or condemnation; that’s not who Jesus is!
These parables are an invitation to make every moment count. The reality is we don’t know when Jesus is coming back (as much as the disciples wanted a sign or a timeline!). It’s not something to fear; instead, Jesus invites us to live wisely, enjoy the full and abundant life of the Kingdom now, learn, grow, and overflow in his goodness.
God has always had great plans for you! Our time, church, is precious. And our work—to share the everlasting love of Jesus Christ—is world-changing! Let’s not waste it by asking the wrong questions, like the disciples, or by living in fear that we might’ve missed the point. If you know Jesus and his love, the time is now! You have nothing to lose by going all in with Jesus right now and letting him transform every moment for a greater glory. He can’t wait to look at us and say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
Reflection:
- How do you feel reading these parables? What’s your body telling you? If there is any fear or self-doubt that accompanies them, why do you think that is? Practice writing or affirming what God says about you!
- What does it look like to maximize your time today? Perhaps a quick prayer as you go about your day: Lord, this day is yours. Use me as a vessel for your work and be present in all I do. Help me to see you today! This time is yours; I give it back to you. Amen.