“Spiritual formation is slow work, not to be hurried.
Spiritual formation is slow work, not to be procrastinated.”
Years ago I heard the late Reverend Eugene Peterson say these words to a crowd of eager learners. They helped shape my own call to serve and deepend my trust in the unseen work of the Spirit within me and others.
As you pray with the metaphors and similes Jesus uses to explain his kingdom, perhaps one will capture your attention. Bring your curiosity, questions and imagination to the text and into your prayer.
Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 (The Message)
Another story. “God’s kingdom is like a pine nut that a farmer plants. It is quite small as seeds go, but in the course of years it grows into a huge pine tree, and eagles build nests in it.”
Another story. “God’s kingdom is like yeast that a woman works into the dough for dozens of loaves of barley bread—and waits while the dough rises.”
“God’s kingdom is like a treasure hidden in a field for years and then accidentally found by a trespasser. The finder is ecstatic—what a find!—and proceeds to sell everything he owns to raise money and buy that field.
“Or, God’s kingdom is like a jewel merchant on the hunt for excellent pearls. Finding one that is flawless, he immediately sells everything and buys it.
“Or, God’s kingdom is like a fishnet cast into the sea, catching all kinds of fish. When it is full, it is hauled onto the beach. The good fish are picked out and put in a tub; those unfit to eat are thrown away. That’s how it will be when the curtain comes down on history. The angels will come and cull the bad fish and throw them in the garbage. There will be a lot of desperate complaining, but it won’t do any good.”
Jesus asked, “Are you starting to get a handle on all this?”
They answered, “Yes.”
He said, “Then you see how every student well-trained in God’s kingdom is like the owner of a general store who can put his hands on anything you need, old or new, exactly when you need it.”
For Reflection and Prayer:
Was there a word, phrase or image which caught your attention you as you listened to or slowly read the text? Gently repeat it to yourself and allow it to settle into your heart.
Quietly reflect on it in your prayer with God. Journal your conversation.
Was there any particular emotion which emerged as you listened to the scripture? Journal about it. Or use color to illustrate the emotion. Where do you sense that emotion in your body? What does that emotion tell you about your need?
Savor any consoling words or pictures as you quietly rest in God.
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