Living in the Spirit
June 14, 2015
Scripture Reading: Mark 4:26-34
He also said, ‘With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.’ –Mark 4:30-32
Little things matter. I lived in Denver for two years back in the 1970’s where the preciousness of water was already understood and conservation practices, at least among some, were the norm. I learned to turn off the running water while I brushed my teeth. A simple act, when practiced by all, saves gallons of water every day.
The police in the USA are rethinking how they relate to the people they serve and protect in light of recent race related incidents. One response has been a return to the police walking through neighborhoods, meeting the people, forming positive relationships, particularly with children, so bonds of trust can be form.
Hardened criminals, some serving life terms, who for all intents and purposes are no longer considered of worth to the world, in their minds and ours, are making the world a better place by training working dogs. Once trained these dogs serve as companions to children who have seizures or to soldiers with PTSD or to others who can benefit from the special skills of these dogs. The prisoners doing the training learn they are people of worth and for a time with each dog receive unconditional love.
The Kingdom of Heaven does not arrive unannounced. It grows like a mustard seed until the whole world is full of its glory. We are all partners in the planting of its seeds and the tending of the plants that result.
Prayer: Lord, you have called us as partners in the unfolding of your Kingdom, help us each to find our job and tend us so that we may grow in sharing your love. Amen.
All scriptures are quoted from the New Revised Standard Version Bible: Anglicized Edition, copyright 1989, 1995, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the United States of American. Used by permission. All rights reserved.