How does the Kingdom of God grow within us and among us? Jesus, the one who experienced growth much like us, invites us to ponder the mystery.
Did his mother hear cries of distress as he cut his first teeth?
Did he have growing pains as his limbs stretched out in adolescence?
Who participated in nurturing his growth into adulthood and fulfilling the purpose for which he was sent?
How did he pay attention to the needs of his own body and spirit?
For rest, darkness, sunlight, air, water, food, warmth, safety, movement, purpose, cleansing, affection, friendship and connection with his Father?
This text lends itself to using your imagination and creative expression in prayer. Come open-hearted to your prayer as you talk over these things together with God.
Mark 4:26-34 (NLT)
Jesus also said, “The Kingdom of God is like a farmer who scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, while he’s asleep or awake, the seed sprouts and grows, but he does not understand how it happens. The earth produces the crops on its own. First a leaf blade pushes through, then the heads of wheat are formed, and finally the grain ripens. And as soon as the grain is ready, the farmer comes and harvests it with a sickle, for the harvest time has come.”
Jesus said, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade.”
Jesus used many similar stories and illustrations to teach the people as much as they could understand. In fact, in his public ministry he never taught without using parables; but afterward, when he was alone with his disciples, he explained everything to them.
For Reflection and Prayer:
As you listened to the text, was there a word, phrase or image which caught your attention? Gently repeat the word or phrase, giving it room to settle deeply in your heart.
Reflect on what you heard. Relish the words. Notice how the word or words affected you. Which emotions stirred within you? Be with what is there for you. You might choose to journal about what you heard.
Respond to what you heard and reflected on in your prayer with God. Is there a prayer of which rises within you?
Rest in God as you simply be and entrust yourself to God in the quiet.
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