Luke 13:18-21 (NRSV)
Read Luke 13:18-21 on biblegateway.com
Verse 18He said therefore, "What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? Verse 19It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches." Verse 20And again he said, "To what should I compare the kingdom of God? Verse 21It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened."
Devotion
Have you ever been called a dreamer? Can you imagine a future that far surpasses the dim hopes and expectations that many hold for this world? What would such a world be like? In these two teaching stories, Jesus boldly announces that the future God is bringing into being will be as surprising as that tree with birds in its branches and as abundant as those amazing loaves of freshly baked bread. Lent is a time for reflecting on a God as grand as that.
Prayer
God, you are the source of our greatest dreams and our highest hopes. Help us to see the signs of your presence in our world. When we are discouraged or cynical, surprise us with signs of your grace and mercy and power. We pray today for all those who long for the dawning of your promised reign; for Christ’s sake. Amen.