God's way is perfect; the promise of the Lord proves true; he is a shield for all who take refuge in him. Psalm 18:30
 
Jesus said, "This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain." Mark 4:26-28 NIV
 
I remember reading about a community of inexperienced pioneer homesteaders who planted in the spring on their newly acquired land. Soon after, before the seed had sprouted, a cold front moved through bringing snow and freezing temperatures. These homesteaders assumed that their entire crops were destroyed. They knew they had no resources to buy new seed for replanting. Worry abounded among all involved. A few days later, these farmers looked out to see fields full of newly-sprouted plants. The seeds were immature enough during the storm that they had not been damaged.
 
God works in mysterious ways his wonders to perform. We need his grace and loving presence in our lives. We cannot escape all that can bring worry and sorrow. We can live knowing that God is in charge and that his loving embrace is awaiting our return to him. The kingdom of God is not for us to understand, but God knows what we need and loves beyond measure all people, his beloved children.  We know that God has prepared a place for us. That is what we need to know and believe. His grace is boundless.
 
Dear Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,
Thank you for the grace you have bestowed on all who believe. Thank you for those who have planted the seeds of faith to bring us into your presence. Thank you for preparing a place in your heavenly kingdom for all believers. Amen.
 
Florence Smallfield   
 
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