Then Jesus took a cup, gave thanks, and said, “Take this and share it among yourselves; for I tell you that from this time on I shall not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” (LK 22:17-18)
Normally, participants the Passover meal drank from their own cups. But at the Last Supper, Jesus has the disciples all drink from the same one. On the brink of death, he heightens the closeness of this group with whom he “eagerly desired” to share his meal.
Jesus promises that one day he will drink this cup with them in the kingdom of God. They thought the kingdom would come soon. It didn’t. We’re 2,000 years and counting, and it could be millions more.
Meanwhile, I need to recognize the presence of Jesus on earth. Jesus is not living in retirement, nor is he far away. Luke wrote the Acts of the Apostles to tell the story of Christ present and active among his people after his death, resurrection and ascension.
Wherever I am as I read this, however distant I might feel from the Lord, on thing is sure: The Lord is with me and wants the same closeness with me as he had with his disciples at that table in the upper room.
Let me enjoy his presence. Just plain enjoy it.