For the kingdom of God is not food and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus never directly answered the question "What is the Kingdom of God?" but spoke in parables instead. He compared the Kingdom of God to the small mustard seed that springs up and becomes the largest of plants. (See Mark 4:30-32.) This parable sheds light on the Christian call to hasten the coming of God's kingdom.
Contemplate a world without crime, poverty, and hunger. Think about what the world would be like if it were filled with righteousness, peace, and joy. These qualities mark the kingdom that Jesus proclaimed. Though it is easy to get caught up in fatalistic, "It is impossible" or "I can't make a difference," Jesus calls his followers to believe in the coming of the kingdom.
The mustard seed was tiny, but little by little it was transformed into a large shade tree. Through the Holy Spirit, Jesus empowers his followers to further the Father's reign. He calls Christians to participate in his work of transforming the world. As a disciple of Jesus, when you show peace, justice, and love, you bear witness to the kingdom.
Abba, Thy kingdom come! Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.
An easy-to-use, practical guide helps parents be informed and engaged in the faith formation of their child.
Children encounter models of our Catholic faith through these beautifully illustrated People of Faith cards. Contains a prayer and brief biography on the back of each card.