It's easy to get discouraged. This past week at our South Wisconsin District Convention, the delegates were reminded by LCMS President Rev. Gerald Kieschnick, of the challenges we face from a culture which is increasingly defiant to God's Word in lifestyle and in practice. It gets discouraging for pastors, church workers, and loyal members of Christian congregations.

But there is comfort in the face of that discouragement from our Savior when He tells the parable of the mustard seed, "which when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts our large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade" (Mark 4:31-32).

Jesus is telling us not to worry. Remember who your God is and what He has promised. This seemingly tiny "kingdom" will one day offer shade to the whole world. Believe it! Live under that comfort and hope!

Pray for Mt. Calvary, that our church would live in the hope and confidence of a God who promises to work through us! Bring others to church at Mt. Calvary, where they will rest in the shade and comfort of God's kingdom promises! Tell others about a God whose kingdom reigns!