Jul 26, 2023
Treasures both old and new: Jesus has spoken of the inevitable victory of the Kingdom, and the fact that it is gathered from a mixed bag of believers and non-believers. Today Jesus pauses to reflect upon the wonder of the Kingdom but we must not think the Kingdom is a treasure or a pearl. Jesus says we should be...
Jul 19, 2023
Growth in the midst of challenges: Jesus continues to teach in parables, so that he might unveil "what has been hidden since the foundation of the world." The presence of God's Kingdom and the presence of evil must always co-exist in our society. What was tiny grows into a great tree, a pinch of yeast produces a...
Jul 12, 2023
Seed is sown. Will it bear fruit?: Jesus begins to tell a series of parables that will be received by some and rejected by others. The leaders of Israel remain "outside" the Kingdom because their hearts are hardened and yet, the seed is sown, and whatever its reception, an abundant harvest will follow. The growth and...
Jul 5, 2023
The necessary yoke and burden: As the Gospel of Matthew moves away from the description of Jesus as a preacher and a healer, he will begin to encounter opposition. Before that begins, we are told that Jesus is so crucial because only He can make God known to those who are open and receptive to his teaching. Once members...