The Kingdom of God Grows

The Kingdom of God Grows

Churches across the land are dying. With Covid-19, attendance in many churches is down by fifty percent compared to two years ago. But even before that the size and number of churches was only a fraction of what they were fifty years ago. In many towns it is easy to find a traditional church building that has been turned into apartments, or a business.

As we look around ourselves at the church, we do not see grain ripe for a harvest. We do not see a mighty mustard bush.

So, then what do we do? We look for a miracle.

Today’s sermon text is from Mark 4:

26[Jesus] said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. 27He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how. 28The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. 29But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”
    30And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? 31It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, 32yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”

Mark 4:26-32

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Announcements

Donations: Although we are slowly emerging from the pandemic, the expenses remain constant. If you wish to make a donation please mail them to the St. James post office box as that is a secure location.

LWML: Funds are still needed to support ongoing activities. Please send donations to Margaret Ebert.

Prayer requests. Bring your prayer requests to Pastor Jenson, Deacon Poe, or Loyd Harris (bulletin typist). They will printed in the bulletin and prayed in the Sunday service. The deadline is Tuesday for mailing on Wednesday. Remember if you are bringing a prayer request on behalf of another person their permission must be obtained.

Prayer during a pandemic:

Almighty God, heavenly Father, give us grace to trust You during this time of illness and distress. In mercy put an end to the pandemic that afflicts us. Grant relief to those who suffer, and comfort all that mourn. Sustain all medical personnel in their labors, and cause Your people ever to serve You in righteousness and holiness; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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