Being asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God would come, he answered them, ‘The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed, nor will they say, ‘Look here it is!’ Or ‘There!’ For behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you.” Luke 17:20-21

Christ our King,

We confess, 

even as we pray daily, “Thy kingdom come,” 

we can be misled by people 

who tell us we will see flashy signs 

that the day of your return is near. 

You yourself told the Pharisees 

and the disciples 

that we wouldn’t be able to predict 

the coming of your kingdom, 

to know exactly the day or the time. 

You also said that it is already here, 

and indeed, since your first coming to earth, 

the kingdom of God has come near. 

You also instructed your disciples 

to be ready for the day you will come again 

in all of your glory 

to reign over your restored earth 

with all who trust in you. 

What should we do? 

We should be ready. 

What makes us ready? 

Very simply, 

trusting you, 

waiting on you, 

seeking the things of your kingdom. 

Very simply, 

praying for and sharing your love 

with those who refuse to bow before you, 

desiring no one to be eternally separated from you 

because of their rebellion. 

By your grace, draw us near

to your throne of grace daily 

to gain the mercy and grace 

we need 

to wait well for your glorious kingdom.

In your ruling name. Amen.  

Read Luke 17:20-37.