All creation groans in labour pains - what a puzzling image. But it tells us that Paul, along with most ancient people, believed that all creation is alive and that humans are very much an intimate part of it rather than passive observers. Not only that, Paul also believes that Christ redeemed the entire created world, not just humans. And the work is not finished - we are still giving birth to a new world that will be marked by justice and peace. Let us cherish and protect the world for which Jesus Christ died.

How can we help to change the world for ourselves? It seems overwhelming and almost impossible - and it is if we try to do everything at once. Jesus uses the images of a mustard seed and a bit of yeast to show how small and seeming insignificant beginnings can lead to huge cosmic changes. We sow the seeds of a future world each day with acts and words of kindness, compassion, justice, and hope. We also do this when we break out of prejudices and habitual ways of thinking and begin to see the world with new eyes. Every human being has an important role to play and this role should never be despised or wasted. Every encounter with others, every thought and conversation, and every decision is an opportunity to sow the seeds of God's kingdom.