the Kingdom of God

I've spent some time this week reflecting on Matthew's description of the way that Christ described the Kingdom of God - mustard seed - yeast - treasure in a field - pearl of great price. The first two are incredibly ordinary, yet they bring about extraordinary results that are surprising and create wonder. The second two are extraordinary in and of themselves. The Kingdom of God is both extremely ordinary and is also extremely extraordinary.

As I move through the second half of my CPE experience I have seen the breaking in of the Kingdom into my life - sometimes in seemingly ordinary moments - and sometimes in radically extraordinary moments. I have gone deep into myself and deep into my own fears, anxiety, and baggage that I bring into ministry. By no means am I now "well adjusted," or without issues - but I have delved deeply into myself as I have encountered my brothers and sisters who are in pain and are contemplating the darkness of the abyss. I have seen the great tree that grows from the mustard seed; I have been fed by the bread that came from the yeast of the Holy Spirit; I have found hidden treasure in fields where others may not see them; and I have seen so many pearls of great price.

I echo Steve's feeling of gratitude toward his supervisor and his colleagues in his program. I also am so thankful for God's grace in my life, and the presence of Christ in all moments of life.