23-July-23 (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43)

In Jesus' parable in our scripture for today, there isn't any way to tell one from the other until they mature and grow.  One interesting consequence of that is here at the Table.  It isn't up to us to determine who belongs here or how they qualify.  The Lord will sort us all out when we're all grown and matured.  Until then, the Host of this Table insists that everyone (whether we think they might become wheat or tare) is welcome.  I suspect we'll be very surprised when we see who's grown up to be what.

Let us pray.

Prayer:

God of us all, we thank you that you love all of us and welcome all of us to the Table.  Help us to judge each other with the love you've poured out on all of us.  Help us remember that everyone is a dear child for which you gave all you had to welcome here.  Thank you for these symbols of bread and cup that remind us of the One who died that we might gather here in your name.

In Jesus name, AMEN