Week 2: The Upside-Down Kingdomनमुना

Jesus’ unexpected birth in Bethlehem was a perfect preview of the Gospel he would later present to the world. His status reversal from the King in heaven to a baby on earth gives us a glimpse into his purpose: to redeem our world by inviting us into his upside down kingdom.

But what does this mean? What is an upside down kingdom?

Picture a triangle with one of its points facing upward; this is the structure that earthy kingdoms follow. The highest point is reserved for the few who are considered “worthy” or are born into a position of power. These individuals stand on the backs of increasingly meager subordinates with the base of the triangle being occupied by the meek and lowly.

In the passage you are about to read, Jesus turns this structure on its head. He is eating with a bunch of fancy, well-respected community leaders, when he tells them a story that would have surely scandalized them. Rather than valuing power and influence, Jesus elevates the humble and tenderhearted; he proclaims that the first shall be last and the last shall be first.

Read: Luke 14:1-24

Reflection Question

1. How is God speaking to me through these verses?
2. What does this set of verses teach me about God?
3. What does this show me about the good news of Jesus?
4. How can I apply what I read today?