All We've Got

Note: only one slice of Daily Bread appeared yesterday. I'm in Central Time, so that might have something to do with it. Today, there should be two: the Montagne reflection and this...on spiritual effort and growth.

Since this did not appear on the 29th, I'm trying to post it again.

The Gospel for Tuesday, October 29, presents the short parable of the tiny mustard seed as a metaphor for the growth of the Kingdom of God, a kingdom which cannot grow unless each of its citizens personally grow. The seed is so small and insignificant that it could easily be lost or overlooked, Yet, in time it becomes a bush large enough for birds to nest in it.
As we have learned through experience, "time" is a key element in the creation of anything worth while. The universe, estimated to have begun 13-20 billion years ago, is still a work in progress...yet the wonder of what exists staggers the imagination. Even the mundane creation of a good home-made pizza takes time and patience for the making of a good crust and sauce.
Athletes know the routine of endless practice to reach their goals, as do artists, actors and writers. There are no short cuts, there are no ways to reach a high level of performance without giving it all we've got. So too with our spiritual life, our prayer, our efforts to live the Gospel and be another Jesus. Time, reliance on our own reserves, our own determination, patience and God's grace will bring the seed within us into full glory and the Kingdom of God one step closer to reality.
Bro. Rene