The Surprising Value of God’s Kingdom
July 29
Read: MATTHEW 13:44-46
Small. Gentle. Quiet. Hidden. Yesterday, we looked at Jesus comparing God’s kingdom to a mustard seed. Here again we read a parable about God’s kingdom, and again this kingdom is compared to something hidden. But the emphasis in these stories is not on the surprising growth of the kingdom of God. This duet of parables emphasizes the surprising value of the kingdom of God.
God’s kingdom shows up where the sick are healed, the poor are provided for, the prisoners are released, and the hungry are given food and comfort. God’s kingdom shows up in acts of love for the people Jesus calls “the least of these.”
And this kingdom work of healing, feeding, forgiving, and restoring is worth more than everything else we have.
Lord, help me to see the surprising value of participating in your kingdom work today. AMEN.
About the Author
Amy Julia Becker is a writer and speaker on faith, family, disability, and privilege. She is a member of Salem Covenant Church in Washington, Connecticut, and author of four books, including White Picket Fences: Turning Towards Love in a World Divided by Privilege.
