20 Asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom of God would come, Jesus said in reply, “The coming of the Kingdom of God cannot be observed, 21 and no one will announce, ‘Look, here it is,’ or, ‘There it is.’ For behold, the Kingdom of God is among you.” 22 Then he said to his disciples, “The days will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, but you will not see it. 23 There will be those who will say to you, ‘Look, there he is,’ or ‘Look, here he is.’ Do not go off, do not run in pursuit. 24 For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. 25 But first he must suffer greatly and be rejected by this generation.”
Historical Background
Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem (Luke’s “travel narrative”), teaching about the coming of God’s kingdom. The Pharisees ask when the kingdom of God will come. They expect visible signs—political liberation, military triumph, or cosmic wonders.
In Jewish thought, the kingdom of God was often imagined as a dramatic intervention where God would overthrow oppressors (like Rome). Jesus challenges this expectation, saying the kingdom is already present in His ministry.
Jesus warns that before the fullness of the kingdom is revealed, “the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected.” This points to His passion and crucifixion, which contrasts with the triumphal expectations of His hearers.
Theological Context
Jesus teaches that God’s reign is not about external signs but is already present in Him. The kingdom is relational, spiritual, and transformative. It is not a spectacle, but a reality experienced through faith, obedience, and love.
The path to glory passes through rejection and suffering. The cross is not a detour but the very way the kingdom is inaugurated.
Eschatology: Jesus balances the “already” (kingdom present in Him) and the “not yet” (future consummation when the Son of Man is revealed).
Learning Lessons
The kingdom is not about power or domination but humility, service, and love. Don’t look for flashy signs; God’s kingdom begins in the heart.
True discipleship means embracing both the joy of God’s presence and the cost of following Christ. Suffering and rejection are not failures but part of God’s plan for redemption.
Reflection for the Day
Today, I am reminded that God’s kingdom is not something distant or hidden in the clouds—it is already here, alive in Christ and in every act of love, mercy, and faith. I don’t need to chase after signs or wait for perfect circumstances; the kingdom is present when I surrender to Jesus. His path of suffering shows me that glory is found not in avoiding pain but in trusting God through it. My challenge is to live as a citizen of this kingdom now, letting His reign shape my choices, relationships, and hopes.
The kingdom is not far away,
Not bound by night, nor tied to day.
It lives within, it breathes in love,
A gift of grace from God above.
No trumpet blast, no earthly throne,
But hearts transformed, His reign is shown.
Through cross and pain, the way is clear,
The Son of Man has drawn us near.
Lord Jesus,
You proclaimed that the kingdom of God is in our midst. Teach me to see Your reign not in signs or power, but in the quiet work of love, mercy, and truth. Help me embrace the path You walked— a way marked by humility, suffering, and trust in the Father. Let my heart be Your dwelling place, so that Your kingdom may shine through my life today. Grant me courage when I face rejection, hope when I walk through trials, and joy in knowing that You are near. To You be glory, now and forever.
Amen.
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
THE COMING OF THE KINGDOM OF GOD / THE DAY OF THE SON OF MAN
Luke 17:20-21/22-37
Gospel Acclamation
I am the vine, you are the branches, says the Lord: whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit.
