The Kingdom of God is Like...

Pastor Kevin Rutledge - 2/12/2023 10:00 AM

Join us this Sunday as we delve into two of the most well-known parables of Jesus, found in Matthew 13:24-43. In this passage, Jesus tells the parables of the mustard seed and the yeast, teaching us about the growth and transformative power of the kingdom of God.

Through our exploration of these parables, we will gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be a part of the kingdom of God, and how we can cultivate a life filled with faith, hope, and love. We will also reflect on the challenges and obstacles that can hinder the growth of the kingdom, and learn how to overcome them through the strength and guidance of the Lord.

Scripture:

First Reading: Psalm 84:1-7
Second Reading: Matthew 13:24-43

This Week's Reading Plan

Day:	Reading:
Monday	Faith Like a Mustard Seed: Matthew 13:24-43
Tuesday	Healing a Woman and a Girl: Matthew 9:27-38
Wednesday	Sending Out the Disciples: Matthew 10:1-23
Thursday	Living in the World: Matthew 10:32-42
Friday	John the Baptist: Matthew 11:1-19
Saturday	Sabbath Controversaries: Matthew 12:1-14
Sunday	The Transfiguration: Matthew 16:24-28, 17:1-8

Reflections and Caring Conversations

Please use the prompts and prayers below to aid you in your devotions for this week.

Scripture Verse For the Week: Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables; without a parable he told them noting. ~ Matthew 13:34
Mealtime Prayer: Thank you, God, for the crops that grow. Thank you, God, for the yeast that makes the bread rise. And thank you, God, for the spices to season our food. Amen.
Prayer of The Week: God, you invite us into your ongoing story to hear your Word and to follow your ways. Help us to have faith in you so that we can share your story with others, because it is your story of saving grace that has the power to transform lives.
The parables teach us that the kingdom of God will grow in abundance from small or hidden things. In what small ways did you see God at work today? A hug from a family member? a wave from a friend?
In next week's story, we hear a voice from heaven that says, "Listen to him [Jesus]." Sometimes it is easy to listen, and sometimes it is hard. What did you listen to today?