Daily Readings - Fri Feb 01 2019
Hebrews
32But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;33Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.34For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.35Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.36For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.37For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.38Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.39But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
Mark
26And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;27And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how.28For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.29But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.30And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?31It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth:32But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.33And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.34But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of faith, trust, and the nature of God's Kingdom. The epistle from Hebrews reminds us of the enduring power of faith amidst trials, encouraging us to remain steadfast and patient, trusting in God's promises. The Gospel from Mark presents two parables: the growing seed and the mustard seed, illustrating the Kingdom of God's growth from small beginnings to a flourishing reality.
Both readings invite us to reflect on the essence of faith and trust in God's plan. Hebrews emphasizes perseverance through hardships, highlighting that true faith is not about drawing back but securing our souls through trust. Mark's parables show that the Kingdom of God, though it may start small and grow unnoticed, ultimately becomes a refuge and home for many. This mirrors how our faith, though it may begin humbly, can grow into something extraordinary.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace patience and trust in God's timing. Just as the seed grows without our full understanding, our faith can develop in ways we may not see immediately. Let us remain steadfast, trusting that God's promises will unfold, and nurture our faith so it may grow into a shelter of grace and love for others.