Matthew 21:42-46

“Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people that produces the fruits of the kingdom.” vs. 43

After generations of dominating the cultural and religious life of the Jewish people the chief priests and scribes had become accustomed to their positions of power and authority. Few had dared to challenge them, and the Roman governor, whose only concern was stability, had become their unlikely ally.

But Jesus wasn’t afraid of them, and in this parable told them that their time was up. They had been unfruitful stewards and would be replaced by new caretakers, people who weren’t interested in power or riches, but who would unleash the power of the Spirit in the lives of the poor and the lowly. It wasn’t a message that they were happy to hear, and they began to look for ways to eliminate the Messenger. 

As time passed, the Kingdom of God did pass into the hands of people who produced the fruit of the Kingdom, but because those people continued to be both good and broken, as the centuries passed, the same issues continued to undermine its mission. Religious leaders relished their positions of power and again used law and coercion to regulate behavior and protect the Church. So again and again Spirit-filled leaders have been raised up to speak the Truth to bishops, priests, and pastors and restore the fruitful Kingdom of Peace. Praise God for the faithful witnesses of every generation!

Thought for the Day: What are the fruits of the Kingdom?