Jesus’ story tells of a kingdom where different types live alongside each other, leaving the judgement to God. Focusing instead on what is truly important.
Worship this week with Holy Communion:
Saturday – 5:00 p.m. in the chapel
Sunday – 8:30 a.m. Traditional Worship
9:30 a.m. Sunday School, Adult Bible Study and fellowship
10:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship
Devotions for this week: PARABLES OF THE KINGDOM
SHARE: What was a high point of your day? What was a low point?
READ: Read the following daily readings to deepen your understanding
Monday, Psalm 84:1-7, Psalm
Tuesday, Matthew 10:16-42, Coming Persecutions
Wednesday, Matthew 10:26-42, Coming Persecutions
Thursday, Matthew 11:1-19, John the Baptist
Friday, Matthew 11:20-30, Woes
Saturday, Matthew 12:1-8, Teachings of Jesus
(Go to clergystuff.com/daily-devotions for devotions on the daily readings.)
TALK: Consider some of these ideas: The kingdom of heaven may be
compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; but while
everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among
the wheat …” (Matthew 13:24b-25)
Jesus’ parables seem to leave many confused. But today’s message is clear: God’s kingdom is our greatest treasure, and it is this we should be seeking rather than the justification of our own views.
- What does it mean that the kingdom of heaven is a reaping of “good seed” and “weeds”? Which are you? How do you know? Whose job is it to discern good from bad, and to reap?
- How can you grow like the “good seeds” in Jesus’ parable? How might you make room in your life for others to grow alongside you?
- For the littles: What does God’s kingdom of heaven look like? What will you find there? One day you will live in God’s kingdom of heaven!
PRAY: O God, your ways are beyond our understanding and your mercy is wide enough to include everyone. May we lay aside our temptation to judge, and instead seek after your heavenly kingdom on earth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
BLESS: May God help you grow in faith and understanding. Amen
