Matthew 13 is textbook Jesus as teacher. The series of parable gives us a clear message about the Kingdom of God and also the last day. When Jesus comes again it is God’s desire that all humanity enter the Kingdom. The role we have is to evangelize all to give everyone opportunity to stand with Jesus.

Matthew 13:44-52. At the end of the readings Jesus talks about the ability of scribes to draw from the old and the new. These Secretaries of State for the High Priest and the Roman Prefect issue decrees. As a scribe...we draw upon the treasure who is Jesus Christ...the way, the truth, the life.

Matthew 13:31-33. Another series of parables about the Kingdom of God. If we see our life as beginning like a mustard seed but can provide shelter and rest for others as we grow to maturity...we can understand what Jesus is teaching.

This week our Gospel reading is Matthew 13:44-52. This parable has stories of finding treasure that brings great joy and results in actions of selling everything. Selling everything is a process or journey. But to find treasures you need to search. Staying in a state of stagnation will be to your peril at the end of the age. Search and you shall find....begin first in your own heart.

Today we journey into Psalm 78. Jesus quotes Ps. 78:2 in Matthew 13 when explain the parables. We have a story and God expects us as disciples to bring glory to HIm through our lives. So tell your children, grandchildren and anyone who will listen about God's salvation in Jesus Christ through your life's lessons. Just as Jesus did - make salvation personal.

Matthew 13:24-30, 34-43 is the Gospel reading form Sunday July 19. Today we encounter the harvest. While we learn to cope and persevere alongside the weeds. God will remove the weeds - sinner and evil doers - at harvest time. The most important fact is that Jesus is alongside of us every moment...we are not in this alone. Together, we will shine like the sun on the last day.

Matthew 13:37-39. The weeds grow along with the wheat. The wheat holds steadfast to the good news. Rootedness in the world does not produce a fruitful harvest.

Matthew 13:30. One verse explains how the Kingdom will be perfected at the harvest. Even though evils may appear to temporality prevail...be patient and trust that God’s promises will always be fulfilled.

Matthew 13: 34-43. Portions of this scripture segment describe the use of parable by Jesus. The world thirsts for hope and assurance in the coming Kingdom...but what will the Kingdom be like? Jesus shares in everyday storytelling.

Gospel for this week is: Matthew 13:24-30, 34-43. The Parable of the Weeds and Wheat.