Leader
As we begin our work and conversation together, let us listen to the Gospel of Mark and reflect on the parable of the kingdom of God:

Reader
A man scatters seed on the land and would sleep and the seed would sprout and grow, he knows not how.
Jesus said to the crowds:
"This is how it is with the Kingdom of God;
it is as if a man were to scatter seed on the land
and would sleep and rise night and day
and the seed would sprout and grow,
he knows not how.
Of its own accord the land yields fruit,
first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.
And when the grain is ripe, he wields the sickle at once,
for the harvest has come."
He said,
"To what shall we compare the Kingdom of God,
or what parable can we use for it?
It is like a mustard seed that, when it is sown in the ground,
is the smallest of all the seeds on the earth.
But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants
and puts forth large branches,
so that the birds of the sky can dwell in its shade."
With many such parables
he spoke the word to them as they were able to understand it.
Without parables he did not speak to them,
but to his own disciples he explained everything in private.

—Mark 4:26-34

REFLECTION

Where in your life and in the life of your organization do you experience the greatest discouragement, even despair? Where do you find it hardest to believe that new life is possible? (pause for reflection)

What would be your greatest hope for your organization? What makes you afraid to hope? (pause for reflection)