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Some concepts are too complex for just one simple explanation. All through the gospels and the letters of the New Testament, Jesus and his early followers try to explain the “reign of God” or “kingdom of heaven” with terms and images that resonate for the listeners of that day. Through a variety of images, they help to tell the breadth …
O God, You are at work transforming me and all creation. You teach me ways of love and caring. You guide me into forgiveness and healing. You call me to compassion and justice. Your intentions for the world contrast with many of the priorities around me and within me. Show me hidden treasures in unexpected places. Show me the potential …
[Jesus] put before [the crowds] another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field;32it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” 33He told them another …
Greetings from beautiful St Paul, Minnesota! I’m on vacation, traveling to see family and friends across the Midwest (where I am originally from). Lots of people I know visit exciting and exotic places when they vacation. It can be exhilarating to visit a distant city, a new country, a lovely beach, or a remote (or not so remote) national park. …
Loving God, You have been with me in each part of my journey. I am grateful for the people who have loved and cared for me through the years. Thank you for the ways they have shaped and guided me. Thank you for the things I have learned through those relationships. I am grateful for the places that I have …
Jesus likes using parables. Parables are simple yet complex stories that use everyday situations and experiences to teach important lessons. They are often multi-faceted, and we may find we see something different each time we approach them. This week in the gospel, Jesus tells the crowd a parable about someone sowing grain. In many ways, he’s just describing a scene …
O God, You are reckless with your love. Rather than picking a good spot, you offer love all around. You spread forgiveness and compassion far and wide. Your welcome is open wide for all your children. Help me to welcome the breadth of your love for me and others. Teach me to live in your hope-filled ways. Thank you …
1That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. 2Such great crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the beach. 3And he told them many things in parables, saying: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. 4And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, …
I wonder how often Jesus felt weary. He was always on the move from town to town. He faced ongoing criticism from religious leaders and folks in the crowds. The disciples were always missing the point when he was teaching. Everywhere he went, he was mobbed by people seeking healing or other help. In the first part of this week’s …
God of rest, When I am weary, When I have too much happening, Help me come to you and find rest. Help me to feel your love and care. Show me you are near as I pray or read your story. Help me find you in music and art and nature’s beauty. Remind me of your love through the love …
