Then He said, "What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and put in his garden; and it grew and became a large tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches." - Luke 13:18-19

In Luke chapter 13, Jesus compares the kingdom to a planted mustard seed. Although a mustard seed is amongst the smallest of seeds, it produces a very large tree. Jesus points out that the kingdom of God may start with a small group or with a small action, but it produces big results. The faith of millions of Christians today is the result of a small group of people who were committed to sharing what Jesus taught them. You may not have a large following or a fancy title, but small acts of love and compassion can go far. You can plant mustard seeds by speaking to someone new, sharing an encouraging scripture, or volunteering your time. Sowing seeds of love can assist in someone's decision to develop a relationship with Christ, and it can't get any bigger than that! May this scripture remind and encourage you that seemingly small actions combined with a great God can produce big results.

Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."

Luke 12:37, 38-39

What would you do today, if you knew that tomorrow you would have to stand face to face with God? What would change if you knew tomorrow you would have to give an account for your life? In Luke chapter 12, Jesus reminds us that we do not know the day or the hour He will return to hold us accountable for our actions. Therefore, we should always be prepared and ready. How do we prepare?

1. Repentance: We all sin at some point in our lives, and we need to ask God for forgiveness.


2. Faith: It is important that we believe that God sent his Son, Jesus, to die so that we may have everlasting life and an eternal relationship with God. God is able to forgive and reconcile all things. Nothing is impossible for God, and without faith it is impossible to please him.
   


3. Relationship: Cultivate a relationship with God. By praying and reading the word of the bible daily, we begin to develop a deeper relationship with God.


4. Live: Everyday make a decision to live out the principles of the bible. Ask God to help you!


5. Love: Love others the way God loves us. This includes loving our enemies and sacrificing our own desires to help others.

Do you these things seem overwhelming? Be encouraged and know that God does not want you to take these steps alone. God says "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." He will guide and enable you to do all of the above and much more.

And which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? If you then are not able to do the least, why are you anxious for the rest?
- Luke 12: 25-26

And do not seek what you should eat or what you should drink, nor have an anxious mind. For all these things the nations of the world seek after, and your Father knows that you need these things. But seek the kingdom of God, and all these things shall be added to you.
Do not fear, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.
- Luke 12: 29-32

What major in college should I choose? Who should I marry? Will I make enough money to support my family? Can I afford to retire? Many people have or will wrestle with these questions at some point in their lives. The uncertainty of our futures can lead to serious anxiety and distress if we choose to dwell on these things. In Luke Chapter 12, Jesus is challenging us to put our trust in God and focus on the kingdom of God first. What exactly is the kingdom of God? God's kingdom is seen when healing, justice, mercy, repentance, freedom, and reconciliation are taking place. I encourage you to make a decision to seek after the kingdom of God, and trust that God will take care of you. God knows all your needs, and He is faithful to provide.

"And forgive us our sins, For we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us."
- Luke 11:4

In Luke chapter eleven Jesus gives his disciples the model for prayer. In this scripture Jesus says "And forgive us our sins, For we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us." Jesus reminds us that if we are to be forgiven, we must show forgiveness to those who offend us. You may have a long list of reasons that justify why you should not forgive someone, but there is one reason why you should. God, who is perfect, extends His mercy to us daily and forgives us of our offenses. We have all sinned against God at different times, and God has every right not to forgive us. But, He chooses to show mercy. As Christians, you may ask God for forgiveness for your offenses, but do you remember to forgive those who have offended you? I encourage you this week to choose to forgive those who are indebted to you.