In Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52, Jesus reveals the surprising nature of God’s kingdom through parables of a mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasure, a pearl of great value, and a net. The kingdom may begin small and unseen, yet it transforms everything.
We often want to pull up the weeds immediately. Jesus teaches a different way—one marked by patience, wisdom, and trust that God alone sees the whole field. Matthew 13 reminds us that God’s justice always arrives in God’s perfect time.
Isaiah 55:10-13 and Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 beautifully complement one another. Isaiah compares God’s Word to rain and snow that water the earth and always accomplish God’s purpose. Jesus builds on this image in the Parable of the Sower, showing that God’s Word is generously scattered like seed. When it falls on receptive hearts, it takes root, grows, and produces an abundant harvest of love, faithfulness, and transformed lives.
Psalm 119:129-132…“The unfolding of your words gives light; it imparts understanding to the simple. With open mouth I pant, because I long for your commandments.” vss. 130-131 Psalm 119 is the longest of the psalms and is devoted to lifting up the law as God’s most loving gift to Israel. Today’s chosen verses call to mind an image of little birds opening up their mouths to receive food brought by a parent. They crowd the nest, their little beaks open…
1 Kings 3:5-12…“Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil; for who can govern this your great people?” vs. 9 The second book of Samuel gives a lengthy account of how Solomon, with the help of his mother, Bathsheba, outmaneuvered his older brothers to ascend to the throne of David. As the story continues in the book of 1 Kings we read how Solomon went to one of the hill…
Matthew 13:36-43…“Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age.” vs. 40 While the parable of the weeds and the wheat could be considered difficult and problematic, the interpretation offered later in the chapter is even more challenging. The dualism is unmistakable and a strong distinction is made between righteous and wicked people. The righteous will shine in the kingdom of their father and the wicked will be…
I came for the Healing of Memories workshop for veterans, and I almost didn’t come because of the trauma I wrestle with, but your staff, the workshop leaders and the quiet and safe campus held me there and I’ve found a new sense of peace and healing.
A retreat for religious leaders who have experienced emotional, psychological and spiritual distress in their personal or professional lives — facilitated by the Institute for Healing of Memories — is coming June 3-6, 2024.