Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
Week of: July 30, 2017
Scripture: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed ... it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.
(Matthew 13:31-32, NRSV)
Devotion
There is a discipline we all share as artists. Writers, dancers, fine artists, musicians – we have had to spend countless hours at our crafts over many years. None of us came into this world prepared to design and lead worship; it was a process of nurture, encouragement, guidance, and practice. The potential is present but needs time to eventually grow and bear fruit.
Jesus says God’s reign begins with a seed, developing from something very small.
Sometimes I expect situations (and people) to automatically be mature and full-grown when in reality that is not how it works. Sometimes I need reminding to show the patience extended to me when I was a younger musician ... and still need now!
Prayer
Eternal Giver of good things, grant us patience with our craft, so that when the artistic gifts grow to maturity, they may be sources of comfort and welcome to all. Amen.
Mark Miller
Minister of Music
Christ Church
Summit, NJ
Photo: Participants in closing worship rehearse prior to the service at Music & Worship Arts Week 2015 in Lake Junaluska, NC.
Awaken 2017, this year's Fellowship convocation, continues through Thursday, July 27, in Little Rock, AR. Please keep our event and its leadership, participants, worship, and activities in your prayers this week as we wake up to the world around us, engage in transformative worship, and contemplate what's next.