Read Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52

What is the subject of these 5 parables? What is the basic theme shared by the first two parables (vv. 31-33)? What do you think that theme would have meant to the first readers of this Gospel in the first century? What does it mean to you today? What is the basic theme shared by the two parables in vv. 44-46? What do you think that theme would have meant to the first readers of the Gospel? What does it mean for you? How does the parable in vv. 47-48 differ from the others? Think of a time when some little thing or action developed, to your amazement perhaps, into something large and significant?

Prayer for the week

Beloved and sovereign God, through the death and resurrection of your Son you bring us into your kingdom of justice and mercy.  By your Spirit, give us your wisdom, that we may treasure the life that comes from Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.   Amen.