In chapter 13 of Luke’s gospel (verses 18-21) the kingdom of God is compared to a mustard seed or to yeast in dough. In today’s reading we are reminded that the kingdom of God cannot be observed because it is already among us, working as a mustard seed that germinates into a huge tree or yeast that causes the dough to rise. We need such a reminder especially today when there is much to despair about. The ongoing war in Ukraine, polarization of politics and religion, climate change, racial and ethnic injustice, lack of civility, and much more can make us literally depressed and wonder where God is. But if we shift our focus and become aware of the many people and organizations that work towards peace and reconciliation, that advocate for better stewardship of creation, that strive for racial and ethnic justice, that labor for a world that works for all, we suddenly realize that the kingdom of God is very much alive. In fact, each one of us in our little everyday actions of love, forgiveness, compassion, and mercy make the kingdom of God present.