Sunday 16 June 2024

Eleventh Ordinary

Families Come Gather

Mark 4: 30 – 32

Jesus continued, “How can we picture God’s kingdom? What kind of story can we use? It’s like a pine nut. When it lands on the ground it is quite small as seeds go, yet once it is planted it grows into a huge pine nut tree with thick branches. The birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”

Have you ever been to a theme park on the Gold Coast? There are all sorts of theme rides and displays, plus great fireworks. Wouldn’t you think that God’s kingdom would exceed any kingdom here on earth?

In our Gospel this week, we read that God’s kingdom is spectacular, but in a very quiet way. There are no loud sounds, unusual sights, or fast rides. Jesus compares his kingdom to a tiny seed that secretly begins to grow underground and, when the time is right, emerges and becomes a great tree that gives shade and shelter. God does not want to shock our senses; instead God wants to capture our attention with wonder and awe and challenge us to share this with others until God’s kingdom gives shelter to all who come looking for God’s love.

God living among us, when I really look at the world around me, I am amazed by your greatness. Help me to share your love in quiet, simple ways that will bring others to worship you with wonder and awe. Amen.

Make a list with your family of some things you see in nature that God created with great beauty.

Justice Challenge

If there was a “how to” manual for Christians, it is in the readings this week. Using parables and stories, Jesus tells the people how to live. 1. Have faith; a little goes a long way. 2. If someone asks you for something, give it and more. 3. Love your enemies. 4. When you do something generous, do it in secret. 5. Don’t store up treasures here on earth. 6. Don’t worry about it; God has everything under control. Your challenge this week is to read the six summaries above slowly. Which one is the Holy Spirit calling you to live? Be, in the words of Pope Francis, a “living Gospel in the world” by practicing one of these six teachings of Jesus.

Creation Care Tips

“I, too, will take from the crest of the cedar, from its topmost branches tear off a tender shoot, and plant it on a high and lofty mountain; on the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it. It shall put forth branches and bear fruit, and become a majestic cedar.” – Ezekiel 17: 22 – 23. Trees play such a huge role in sustaining the environment. They suck up CO2, produce fruits, provide shade, etc. This week, spend some time with trees and consider their slow and amazing growth. Take a walk around your local area to see if you can find fruit trees. Research and look for native trees in your region.