Dear Parishioner,

It is often said that we live in an impatient world. We want quick answers, instant

solutions and immediate results. This Sunday’s Gospel reminds us that God’s way is

often very different from our own.

Jesus tells three short parables: the wheat and the weeds, the mustard seed, and the

yeast. At first glance they seem quite different, but together they paint a wonderful

picture of how God works in our lives and in the world around us.

In the parable of the wheat and the weeds the servants are eager to pull up the

weeds as soon as they see them, but the farmer tells them to wait. In doing so, Jesus

reminds us to remain faithful, trusting that in the end goodness will overcome evil.

The other two parables speak of growth. A tiny mustard seed becomes a great tree.

A small amount of yeast quietly transforms a whole batch of dough. Both remind us

that the Kingdom of God often begins in ways that seem almost insignificant. A

kind word, a simple act of generosity, a visit to someone who is lonely, a prayer

offered in faith. These may seem like small things, but in God’s hands they can

make an extraordinary difference.

Perhaps this is an important reminder for us all. Much of God’s work happens

quietly, through the everyday acts we do. Every welcome offered at the church

door, every candle lit in prayer, every volunteer who gives their time, every hidden

act of kindness helps to build God’s Kingdom.

At times we can become discouraged. We see conflict in the world, divisions in

society, and a growing indifference towards faith. There are moments when it can

seem that Christian values are overlooked or even ridiculed. Yet Jesus encourages

us not to lose heart. The mustard seed continues to grow. The yeast continues its

unseen work. The harvest will come in God’s own time.

As we begin another week, perhaps we can ask ourselves a simple question: What

small seed of goodness can I plant today? A word of encouragement, an act of

forgiveness, a helping hand, a quiet prayer, none of these are ever wasted. God

delights in using small beginnings to accomplish great things.

Let’s never underestimate what God can do through lives that are quietly faithful,

patiently hopeful, and rooted in his love.

Yours in Christ,

Deacon Ian