This month’s Net is based on a few verses taken from Luke’s gospel,
Then Jesus asked, "What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches." Again he asked, "What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough."
I think that Jesus is showing us that the kingdom of God is an active, living thing and when it comes into contact with the world, has an effect on it. There is an inevitable reaction when a seed is planted in a garden or when yeast is added to dough and I think that as we come closer to where God is, we react. It may be that we say no, but God does not sow just the one seed in our lives, He throws his seed at us in generous handfuls. If we allow God to plant his seed then His kingdom can grow in us.
The birds that come to rest in the branches of the mustard tree I think can represent all the people of different Christian faiths that make up the worldwide church. Despite our differences of expressing our faith, the faith is rooted in Jesus and all can find peace and safety in the branches of God’s kingdom.
The yeast reminds me of the fact that a little bit of the kingdom in the world has a big and wonderful affect. I know that sometimes people within the church do some bad things and these are readily brought to our attention through the media. However, there is so much more good done by the church that goes on without notice. I am not saying that the Christian church has the exclusive rights on good works, but as far as St. Martin’s is concerned, behind the good works is the desire to bring the kingdom of God to others.
May God bless you and all of your family,
Martin
