Listen

“The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us to go and gather them?’

“But the landowner said, ‘No, because if you gather the weeds, you’ll pull up the wheat along with them. Let both grow side by side until the harvest. And at harvesttime I’ll say to the harvesters, “First gather the weeds and tie them together in bundles to be burned. But bring the wheat into my barn.”’”

Matthew 13:28b-30

Think

In our story today, Jesus continues with his parable of the “weeds among the wheat.” Jesus was speaking in a time where agriculture was the primary source of income and would have had a major impact in society. This story would be relatable to all who heard it. The “master” in the story commands both the invasive plant (weeds) and the native plant (wheat) grow together.

How is this like the Kingdom of Heaven?

As a Christian people, we learn to live like Christ in a world where it’s uncommon to practice radical love and grace. In this story, we have both something positive and something negative finding space to live together. In this story, Jesus wants us to realize that the good work (wheat) can grow alongside and among the realities of the world (weed).

So where do we go from here?

It’s simple. Continue to live like Christ in the world. And remember, wheat can and does live among the weeds.

Jacob Kennedy

Question to Ponder:

How do you seek to work together with people who are different from you?

Pray

God, when the troubles of this world are springing up around me, help me to see something new.

When I feel tense and unsure, help me to remember that you call me to work together, with all people, for hope in the world.

In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Go

Receive now this shortened blessing of Saint Patrick, as sung by musician Steve Bell in his song, “The Lorica”:

“Be above me, as high as the noonday sun.

Be below me, the rock I set my feet upon.

Be beside me, the wind on my left and right.

Be behind me, oh circle me with your truth and light.”

Amen