Summer 2024

Dear All Saints’ Family and Friends,

Each summer I look forward to observing my neighbor’s vegetable garden as it grows. At some point in the spring, he preps the bed and plants the seeds. Early in the season it looks like a barren dirt patch, but I know the mystery and potential of the seeds that lay beneath the soil. So as I walk by, I wonder: What seeds did he plant this year? Will they germinate, grow, flourish, and bear fruit? This past week, I saw my neighbor in his garden looking frustrated. He told me that the landscapers had dug up his callaloo shoots and thrown them away along with the weeds. The workers had not recognized that the little plants would grow to become leafy greens used as a key ingredient in a variety of hearty healthy dishes.

It was interesting that, on the Sunday preceding this incident, the gospel lesson included two parables about seeds and growth that Jesus told to teach his followers about the Kingdom of God. (Mark 4:26-34) While there are many lessons that we can learn from these stories, one take-away is that we sometimes miss the signs of where and when God’s kingdom is springing forth and even thriving. We may not notice or understand how God is working in our world.

David Lose, who is a pastor and author, suggested that it would be worthwhile for us to take the time to look diligently for those places where God’s kingdom is sneaking in, breaking out and even taking over little corners of our world. Then, having recognized them, we need to figure out how we might aid and assist their growth. [1]  

Summer is a season when many enjoy being outdoors and going on vacations. It is an opportune time to notice where the seeds of hope, peace, joy, and healing have been planted and are trying to grow and thrive. So, whether we remain near to home or travel to some far-off destination, I pray we will not miss God at work in the people we meet and the places we go.

Blessings for the summer.

Yours in Christ,

The Rev. Maxine Barnett, Rector