January 26, 2018 Friday of the 3rd Week in Ordinary Time-B STS. TIMOTHY AND TITUS, BISHOPS

2 Timothy 1:1-8

Psalm 96

Mark 4: 26-34

“It is like a grain of mustard seed, which…is the smallest of all the seeds on earth…Mk. 4:31

Lord, we are so impressed with the biggest, the fastest, the tallest, the strongest and the most spectacular.  Our appetite for more impressive displays of power and strength is never satisfied.  You used the tiniest of all seeds on earth to describe your kingdom.  I think you were telling us not to overlook even the smallest and most insignificant steps toward your kingdom.  We so much want everything, all at once.  We are a microwave and TV remote control culture.  Looking at a mustard seed one would never guess the beauty and wonder of what it will become.  Help me today, Lord, to appreciate the beauty of a sunrise or a rainbow as signs of your presence.  Show me the small ways I can love more, give more, and live more.  Never let me discount the little children near me who are just beginning their walk with you.   Make me aware of the soft whisper of your voice telling me how much I am loved and valued in your kingdom.  When a sinner takes their first small step toward repentance let me, with your grace, encourage them and support them.  Amen