This is more than just a prayer; it is a profound theological statement taught by Jesus to his disciples. It carries multiple layers of meaning, encapsulating futuristic hope, acknowledgment, and submission to the sovereign rule of the King, and the intercessor’s deep longing for the coming of God’s kingdom.

One crucial aspect of this prayer is the theological concept known as ‘Already and Not Yet.’ Jesus inaugurated His kingdom with His first coming. When asked about the Kingdom, Jesus responded, “Look, here it is! or There it is! For, in fact, the Kingdom of God is among you” (Luke 17:21). However, the full realization of His Kingdom is yet to come. The consummation of his Kingdom is still ahead of us. Therefore, the tension between the ‘already’ and the ‘not yet’ is a common theme in scripture. For instance, John writes, “Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed” (1 John 3:2). The Scripture assures us of a glorious future, hence, calling us to live responsibly in the present. In fact, this tension between the ‘already’ and the ‘not yet’ compels us to earnestly and meaningfully pray, “Thy kingdom come.”

In our church this year, we will be dedicating ten days to fervently pray the prayer “Thy Kingdom Come,” starting from May 9th (Ascension Day) until May 19th (Pentecost Day). The church will be open every day during these ten days from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM and for 24 hours from 1:00 PM on the 17th until 1:00 PM on the 18th. You can read the full details on the event page here. During this time, we will be praying specifically for at least ten people who have not yet accepted Jesus as their savior. May I ask you to list down their names and commit to praying for them for at least ten minutes every day?

We believe that through our prayers, we will witness the growth of God’s kingdom. May the Lord help us to live out this prayer fervently and faithfully! “Thy Kingdom Come, O Lord! Amen.”