Nests of Hope

Scripture

He also said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”  (Mark 4:30-32 NRSV)

Nests of Hope

We were confined to quarters last week awaiting negative tests and absence of symptoms so the links of family and friends kept us on a positive trajectory. I am unaccustomed to being designated positive and will be glad to return to my normal state of negativity.

As I write this, I can still taste a friend’s marmalade which landed on our doorstep (gently) – a tasty shot of energy and hope. He’s one of many diverse nests of help and hope that have benefited us. Medical advice, prescriptions, groceries delivered, the drift at the end of the driveway removed, texts and emails – all generous support unconnected with each other but coming from one Kingdom tree of kindness.

One day Jesus scratched his head looking for yet another metaphor for the Kingdom of God. Spotting a mustard tree, its tiny beginnings as a seed gave no hint of the stretched branches that were home to countless nests of birds. And I guess that’s one way to understand how we are connected to one another.

Seeds of hope are planted and over time the branches extend, and nests of faithful people produce others – and produce the good actions and loving behaviour that enriches the world – not tied to any organization of institution, they just give life.

A Prayer for Today

Loving God, you know we need many ways to understand how you engage us and connect us with one another. Nest in ever-widening branches is a good one. Not easily seen but full of life and energy. Even in the shade you have people working and loving. Keep us hopeful, looking for health and hope in unexpected places …. For Jesus’ sake.