Jesus’ words are clear. The reign of God is at hand, right here, right now.

But this is never obvious! Terror makes for headlines. Earthquakes destroy lives. Political parties triumph over truth. Marriages crumble like stale bread and spoil like leftover wine. Life is tough!

The Roman peace was filled with contradiction too. Oppression reigned as foreign troops “nailed down” Jerusalem. Herod was a despot - and zealot-charged violence provoked retaliation. It was hard to see the reign of God as present or peaceful. In some other world perhaps; but not here!

The promise of Jesus defied expectations, and confused. “We must go to Jerusalem. I will be mocked, scourged, and crucified. I will be put to death, and on the third day I will rise again.” The people are hungry for truth and freedom. But this is a strange kind of food!

The mission of Jesus was clear, to him at least: “If you wish to be my disciple, you must deny yourself, take up your cross and follow me” It’s not a campaign promise that would get you into office – and power!

What is at stake here is the very word of God. Can you trust it? Do you even hear it? Can you believe in it?