"Later that same day Jesus left the house and sat beside the lake. A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore. He told many stories in the form of parables."

The above passage is the beginning of Matthew, chapter 13. In Matthew 13 Jesus tells many stories as parables. As I have read and "processed" the parables of Jesus I have often thought of the wisdom of teaching in this form. The stories provide a mental picture for each person to "hear and see" in their minds. They also provide a lesson about God and God's relationship with His people. Finally, each parable tells us something to do if we really take the story to heart.

Last night at Bible study I was reminded of a story about God's plan and purpose for us as Bill Brandenburg shared a story I had heard before. It was a story about Albert Einstein traveling on a train. When the conductor asked for tickets Dr. Einstein couldn't find his ticket. The conductor told him it was OK. He knew Dr. Einstein. Later the conductor saw Dr. Einstein still looking for the ticket and he repeated that the conductor knew exactly who Dr. Einstein was and he didn't need his ticket. Dr. Einstein replied "I also know who I am, but I've forgotten where I was going!"

This story reminds us that as we are inundated with the troubles, trials and concerns of life we can get lost. The parables help us find our way back to "the Kingdom of God" on earth as it is in heaven. So why wait? Live in that "Kingdom" while you are here!

Our new sermon series is "Kingdom Tales - Stories of the Faith." We will be examining the parables in both the New and Old Testaments. Some of these stories tell us harsh truths. Some are gentle. All are worthy of our time and energy as we seek God's face and wisdom for living life.

Come join as we seek to have "ears to listen and eyes to see!" I think God will be faithful to send us out with His truth in out hearts, heads and lives!

In Christ's Love, Pastor Randy