Lenten Devotional
March 1, 2018

Mark 4:21-34
"'With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.'"

"A Mustard Seed" by Piety Choi (2015)
Piety Choi presents this semi-abstract painting titled "A Mustard Seed". It is inspired by Jesus' parable of the mustard seed that all three synoptic gospels have preserved (Matt 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-32; Luke 13:18-19).
 
"The large red round image symbolizes the circle of life in which the people of the world engage and interact with one another. The darker shades represent the dying, whereas the crimson spots remind us of the élan vital. Come closer, for there are tiny seeds nested around the roots. They recall the pith of the parable in the triple gospel tradition, in which Jesus invites us to imagine how they will grow to provide the birds of the air with rest. One may well observe the flying creatures hovering from left to right. We all are invited as the members of the believing communities to come together and construct all good connections starting small yet with a grand vision of the wholeness of life." -Piety Choi  

Art description from pulpit.org. 

For more information about Piety Choi and to view additional artwork, please visit her website.

Artwork for the 2018 Lenten Devotional has been selected by Chris Whitaker.