Nougat 12

How do you classify your relationship to Jesus – Do you consider yourself a citizen of Heaven, and if yes, what does that mean? Here’s today’s Holy Nougat

“Jesus said, “I have been very eager to eat this Passover meal with you before my suffering begins. For I tell you now that I won’t eat this meal again until its meaning is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.” Then he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. Then he said, “Take this and share it among yourselves.” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭15‬-‭17‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Special thanks to all of you who offer feedback and questions. Yesterday, someone asked for more details on the phrase Kingdom of God. I offer the following:

Used in the beatitudes (the kingdom of Heaven), the Greek word ‘basileia’ refers to a seat of royal power, or a sovereignty, or realm of rulership. HELPS Word studies indicate that this is constantly used in connection with the rule of Christ in the hearts of believers.

Interestingly, in Luke 22:16, the reference is to the Kingdom of God, not of heaven. Commentators in Strong’s Concordance propose that Jesus used the term ‘Kingdom of God’ intentionally to underscore the perfect order of things about to be established, whereby every individual who believes will be gathered in God’s unified kingdom as joint heirs of eternal salvation.

As stated in past nougats, a repeated word or phrase invites us to additional reflection. And Jesus used the phrase ‘Kingdom of God’ twice – once for the food, and then for the drink. He noted that that supper was the penultimate supper together – the next ‘in person’ feast was scheduled for the Kingdom of God. And while it was a key message for the disciples then, it offers us that critical Hope now. For partaking of the Feast – of the bread and wine – acknowledges that we too can also join the next ‘in person’ feast; when the Kingdom of God is established.

Siblings, the day will come, and all who believe will be counted – not so much as servants, but – as heirs to God’s Promise.

For as often as we eat the bread and drink the cup, we proclaim Christ’s death and resurrection until He returns

Heirs to God’s Kingdom – I’ll drink to that!

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May all we seek be found in Christ