A Few Words On "The Word"

May 6, 2007
Fifth Sunday of Easter, Year C

John 13:31-33a, 34-35
Rev 21:1-5a

The New Kingdom is Now!

Don't you just love getting new stuff? Who could ever forget the smell of new shoes or a new car? Everyone likes upgrading to the newest gadget with the latest technology. If you've ever moved into a new house I'm sure you were at least a little excited at the prospect of a chance to decorate your room. New things look better, work more efficiently, and at the very least make old things last longer.

Not too long ago the place where I work moved into a brand new building. Though the construction took a lot of planning and the move itself wasn't easy we were all excited about being in a new environment. The whiter walls and fresh carpets made us work just a little bit harder. The technological improvements helped us to work more smoothly and efficiently.

Today's readings talk about a more abstract newness. In the book of Revelation we are told about a new world where God will dwell with us, righting all the wrongs. Quite simply, God will usher in a new kingdom where peace will reign. In the gospel reading Jesus shows us that life in the new kingdom will be characterized by love. People will know we are a part of the new kingdom because of our love for others.

The passage from Revelation can be looked at in a couple of ways. Some might read it to mean that God's new kingdom will be established at the end of time. Others could say that Jesus was God dwelling with us and therefore the new kingdom had been established by him. Jesus' teaching and ministry as seen in today's gospel reading seems to back this idea up.

In reality, both views are accurate. Jesus did usher in a new kingdom and a new way of life that centers upon our love for others. However, we know that even though this kingdom exists it isn't perfect. Not all people live in love, serving others in a way that strengthens God's kingdom. Only at the end of time, and in heaven, will the kingdom be fully established in a perfect way. We live today realizing that the new kingdom has come but anticipating the day when it will reach its end goal.

The idea of a new kingdom and the desire to build it is something that appeals to us as Christians. Though we like getting new things, we realize that a new way of living is more important than the stuff we possess. When we use the new life God gives us to overcome our selfishness and begin to love others more than we love ourselves, we know that we are doing something worthwhile. Sometimes it's easy to forget that the kingdom has come requiring us to work in love and service to those around us, building the relationships that strengthen God's kingdom both here and now and for the future.

Reflection Question

In what ways do you seek to strengthen the new kingdom through your daily activities?

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