Spring in Amsterdam

We have now lived in Amsterdam for more than half of a year. The cold dreariness of Winter seems to have faded away, and Spring is in full force. Spring in Amsterdam is BEAUTIFUL. The whole city, not just the budding trees, has come to life. Outdoor cafes, flowers, parks, boats on the canals, tourists...experiencing A'dam this time of year is new and refreshing. Once we started feeling like we knew the place, it has completely changed, and we get to go exploring again.

It makes me think of the kingdom of God, and all of those perplexing parables that Jesus told in explanation of the kingdom. Just when I start to think that I've got it figured out - something new blossoms. His kingdom is always so much bigger, more beautiful and more sustaining than I expect. But it is so easy to get caught in the rut of what I think I know...just like living here in Amsterdam. It is easy to take Grayson to the same park; and not only the same park, but the same corner of the park; and not only the same corner, but the same shady-tree in that corner. After all, it's a nice and comfortable and safe spot. And Grayson loves the playground that is close by. But there is so much more of the park to see! And so many more parks in the city to visit!

But God's kingdom is big, and is always growing. That is our hope, and that is why I am excited to be here. Luke 13:18,19 'Then he (Jesus) said, "How can I picture God's kingdom for you? What kind of story can I use? It's like a pine nut that a man plants in his front yard. It grows into a huge pine tree with thick branches, and eagles build nests in it."'