DEVOTION FOR MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2017
Eating and Drinking in the Kingdom
Ron Popeil became an American institution as the star of late-night television infomercials for products including the Chop-O-Matic and the Showtime Rotisserie Oven. His infomercials are punctuated by vivid demonstrations—such as when he hits the door of the rotisserie with a hammer to show its strength—and by his flourish to reveal unanticipated features with the catchphrase “But wait, there’s more!”
The Gospel of Matthew doesn’t employ cheesy showmanship, but it does offer a vivid demonstration of the character of salvation and highlights remarkable features one might not have expected. By the time we reach our reading for today in the text, Jesus has already promised His disciples that they will have “treasure in heaven” (Matt. 19:21; also 6:20). But wait—there’s more!
Jesus tells His disciples that He “will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom” (v. 29), which reveals one of the features of the salvation He promises: we will have bodies capable of drinking and eating. In other words, salvation ultimately includes resurrection. He promises not only a heavenly home for our souls but also a resurrected life in which our souls and bodies will be reunited.
The promise of resurrection reminds us that God cares for us profoundly both in soul and in body. Jesus demonstrates this care in the most vivid fashion. In this passage He shares simple gifts, bread and the cup, with His disciples. These represent His body and blood, even greater gifts He would soon offer for His followers. For gifts so incredible and costly, we should praise Jesus, the great lover and redeemer of our souls and our bodies.
APPLY THE WORD
The promise of resurrection underscores God’s care for people’s bodies. Christians have expressed that care through acts of mercy such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting those in prison. Where in your church or community are there opportunities to participate in acts of care that reflect God’s love and promise of His resurrection?
Today in the Word is a production of Moody Global Ministries
