From: April 9, 2023
‘Then Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed that a man planted in a garden; it grows and becomes a tree, and the birds make nests in its branches.”’ (Luke 13:18-19 NLT).
Jesus spoke this parable to illustrate the way the Kingdom of God would begin very small, but ultimately would grow very large. For the tiny mustard seed illustrates the Church’s humble beginnings, with its Galilean Founder crucified and buried in a tomb. Yet on the third day the Seed burst forth from the grave and the news of His resurrection has steadily grown like a tree to nearly fill the earth.
Christ, the Seed, was planted in the garden tomb, but He was raised to life and lives today. He is risen! He is risen, indeed! Let the whole earth be filled with His glory!
PRAYER: Dear Father, we give glory and praise to You on this Resurrection Sunday as we remember Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to proclaim the good news until everyone has heard. In Jesus’ name, amen.
From: April 9, 2015
Are your words a pressure cooker or a pressure release for others? When you see someone struggling with anxiety, do they need something more to worry about? Or do they need a “good word” that lifts them up? Consider how people perceive you. When they see you coming, what do they expect? Does anxiety grow in them, anticipating criticism or trouble? Or do they lean towards you, hungry for the blessing of your words? Of course, the best word is God’s Word. Fill your heart and mind with His Word and you’ll find that it flows from your tongue when needed to bless others.
From: April 9, 2014
This is a description of King David, whom God took from the sheep pens to the throne room and made a shepherd over Israel. God loves taking the least and raising them up to prominence. And God cares more for the inner than the outer life. He knew David’s heart. He knew that he could be trusted with God’s people. David “cared” for God’s people. David had a “true heart,” a heart of integrity. There’s a character trait greatly needed in our presidents and pastors today! But he wasn’t just all passion and no competence. No, he had hands to match his heart, God had given him skill with people and with administration. David was the shepherd king, the greatest king Israel had known. He was the foreshadowing of the true Shepherd King, which is Christ Jesus the Lord. Christ’s heart and hands are unmatched! He is the Shepherd who willingly lay down His life for the sheep.
From: April 9, 2013
One of many parables of Jesus describing the kingdom of God (or heaven). This parable teaches the “small to great” effect of the kingdom. That just a little leaven causes the whole bread to rise, perhaps points to the small gathering of disciples in an obscure country that will turn the world upside down with the gospel. God often chooses the little to affect the great, the weak to overturn the mighty, the foolish to confound the wise. The kingdom may be “hidden” for a time, but that doesn’t mean God isn’t at work making everything new.
From: April 9, 2012
A description of King David’s administration. And a foreshadowing of Christ’s kingship. Also, an encouragement to all those who are called to lead God’s people. Care for them. From pure motives. Lead with skill. Be a shepherd. Like Jesus.