Tales of the Kingdom

Since the parables describe kingdom behavior, if we view them collectively we can begin to paint a mental image of kingdom life.  If we are in Christ our reality is a place where people have accepted the King’s invitation to feast with Him (Matthew 22:1-10).  He is a gracious Monarch and we want to be like Him in our dealings with others (Matthew 18:23-35).  We administer grace to the desperate (Luke 10:25-37), and search for those who are lost (Luke 15:11-32).  In our King’s kingdom we invest our talents wisely for His purposes (Luke 19:12-27), and given a choice, there isn’t anything we would trade for the opportunity to serve Him! (Matthew 13:44)

The “kingdom” motif is always popular with children; specifically the medieval version.  Young boys challenge each other as brave knights with swords fashioned out of sticks and broom handles.  Young girls dress up like princesses and dream of dancing with the prince of their dreams.  But children don’t outgrow their passion for kingdom life.  Young women want weddings fit for a queen and young men want to live like a king.  These human fantasies are rooted in the possibility of a life with endless possibilities and endless joy.

It is important to understand life in God’s kingdom isn’t free of pain or responsibility.  We certainly aren’t the center of attention, and we can’t have everything we want.  Yet, the joy our King gives us is greater than anything this world has to offer.  We don’t mind selling every pearl we own to buy the one of great price, or waiting all night for the bridegroom to come (Matthew 13:45 f, Matthew 25:1-13).  Our kingdom existence is rooted in reality, not fantasy, and while our King may not give us everything we want, He will certainly provide all we need.  It is a tale as old as time, and one that will last until the end of time as we know it.