"The Lenten Pilgrimage" - Day 16

Saturday, March 6th 

     “Jesus 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

     While on our spiritual pilgrimage to the cross, it’s a good time to seek out and identify those places where the kingdom of God is growing.  Jesus reminds us that the kingdom can begin in small ways, even without notice.  Goodness doesn’t always arrive with a ticker-tape parade. 

     These are good days to hold fast to the hope that God is up to something in our midst, even in our own lives.  And just because the fruit of the kingdom may be hidden from our view, it doesn’t mean that the seed is not in the ground. 

     Lent is a season for preparing the soil of the soul in order that God’s kingdom seeds may germinate and grow.  It’s a season for plowing, watering and nurturing by engaging in the spiritual disciplines of prayer, worship, study and service. 

Prayer

     Lord Jesus, today we consider the mystery of the mustard seed, remembering that the 

    kingdom of God can be present among us even when it is hidden from view.  We give 

    thanks that the kingdom may be germinating in ways we cannot see nor imagine.  We 

    marvel at the beauty of nature, and we are mindful that God's wisdom is often revealed 

    in creation's rhythm and renewal of life.  Teach us once again the lesson of the mustard 

    seed.  Grant us an expectant hope for the kingdom of God to grow in our place and

    time.  Help us to tend your garden well.  In your holy name we pray.  Amen.