Then he said, "What is the kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it?"
Luke 13:18
A good teacher finds ways to make a lesson clear to his or her students. Relating even complex material to familiar things makes the complex clearer. Jesus is the Master Teacher.
The everyday things of a bush and leavened dough are easily grasped by His listeners. The tiny mustard seed and the bush it becomes is easy to understand and to internalize. So, too, is Jesus' point --- from small beginnings come great growth.
Still, conditions must favor the bush's growth, and the dough's rising. So it is with our faith. It too must be nurtured and nourished.
If we give some time to pondering the "little things" which surround us, might we not draw the same lessons and comfort as those who listened to Jesus? God is all around us, always, and working His wonders, if we but pause and appreciate. Big wonders, like a sunset, small wonders like a bird song. Nature is just one of the manifestations which are given to us for our growth.
Gentle, loving Lord, help me to find You in the "everyday-ness" of my life. Help me to see You and to be nourished by Your goodness. Help me to grow in Wisdom and Grace as I strive to faithfully follow the Master Teacher.
Reflection by:
Sister Marlene Weidenborner
Did you know...
Sister Marlene Weidenborner, OSF, is a member of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, NY. A religious for over 60 years, most of Sister's ministerial life has been lived out in the various dioceses of Florida. Currently Sister serves as the Vicar for Religious in the Diocese of St. Petersburg.
