Reflection on the Kingdom of God

Gardening season is here.  You know, the season where you watch those tiny seeds you planted in the spring begin to grow.  Those seeds started out so small, so seemingly weak, but they begin to grow into an amazing miracle.

Recently, I've been meditating on some of the ways Jesus describes the kingdom of God:

• The Parable of the Sower (Luke 8:4-15)
• The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Luke 13:18-19)
• The Parable of the Yeast (Luke 13:20)

In all 3 of these parables Jesus describes the kingdom of God as something that starts out very small and insignificant, compared to everything else going on around it.  However, as the power begins to be released, the items begin to invade their surroundings and have influence in a dominant way.

There are a couple of thoughts that I have as a result of reflecting on the kingdom of God in this way.  The relections are that the Kingdom of God requires TIME and PATIENCE.  Let us just admit that in America we do not understand these things very well.  We are used to getting things done NOW and finding the most efficient way to possibly get them done.  Not so with the kingdom of God.  If you read the parable of the sower, the Word of God, was "wasted" on many soils that were not ready.  The yeast was kneaded into 60 pounds of dough.  The mustard seed started out so tiny.  Time, effort and patience was needed in each example.  I think we need to remind ourselves how God operates and moves so we don't miss Him or short-change the process of what He is doing.  The kingdom of God operates in small, seemingly insignificant ways and at the time we often cannot possibly see or imagine what will take place.  However, if we will take the time to do the parts that God asks us to do in the process and let Him take care of the rest we will begin to see the Kingdom of God blossom and bloom in incredible ways. 

So as you work in your gardens this summer take time to pray and ask God to give you deeper insight into how the Kingdom of God operates.  Pray that He will give you the patience, strength and willingness to invest in the lives of others even if you do not see the "results" of your investment in an American timeframe.

2 Thessalonians 3:5

May the Lord lead your hearts into

God's love

and

Christ's patience!

In Christ,

PS I still have two more books to give away of the Birthright.  If you are interested e-mail me your mailing address @ forhisgloryalone@ymail.com.