Gospel: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52

There are six parables grouped together in this Sunday's gospel reading. The first two, the mustard seed and the yeast, deal with seemingly insignificant agents that actually achieve very powerful effects. The word of God works this way, both in the church and in the lives of individuals. The next two, concerning the hidden treasure and the fine pearl, describe two different people who, contrary to their expectations, find the kingdom of God in different ways. Both are willing to forget about everything else in their desire to obtain and keep it. The following fifth parable warns the hearer that there are eternal consequences connected with the way in which one receives the gospel of the kingdom. In the sixth parable we can see that those entrusted with proclaiming the kingdom have the old well-known and well-trusted treasure (i.e. Christ's teachings) but also have an ever new exciting evaluation of that treasure as they constantly find new means of applying it in new situations.

A Baptism this Sunday - Praise the Lord

  

Listening and Taking the Next Faithful Step

Our parish has two important meetings coming up this weekend; we're thinking about next steps after a period of uncertainty. We thank our visiting pastor and visiting Assistant Bishop for their insights and leadership. 

I Do Not Have to Hold Everything Together

This is a pertinant prayer for me at the moment. Thank you for sending me this message, and keep reminding me of this. 

Our God Searches for Lost Sheep

Oh Father, thank you that you are indeed a God who searches. Thank you for finding me, and keep finding me when I go astray. Lord, I lift before you those who are dear to me and ask you to break through. Please find them and bring them to the cross of your dear Son. In his name, I pray. Amen.

Funeral for Bette

 

We farewelled our dear Sister in Christ, Bette, yesterday at a funeral just right for her personality and christian values. Vale Bette. Jesus has welcomed you into his arms. 

A Prayer

Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ, 

know your sheep and call us each by name. 

In a world where trust has been broken and your people have been wounded, draw near to us with your gentle voice. 

Lead us away from fear and harm, and into the safety of your care. Restore what has been lost, heal what has been hurt, and gather us again into one flock under your grace. 

Teach us to recognise your voice above all others, to follow where you lead, and to rest in the promise that no one can snatch us from your hand. 

For you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.