Jesus told stories. They are compelling stories designed to wake us up to God’s work and ways in the world. We call them ‘parables’, a word which comes from Greek and means ‘to throw alongside’. As Jesus throws common place images alongside the vision of God’s kingdom in the world, we start to see the amazing future God wants for us all. And as we let these stories get under our skin, we discover God’s incredible invitation and empowerment to embrace this exciting new life together. In this moment of global challenge God will use these ancient stories to give us a bold new vision. We are being called out of confusion and uncertainty into the righteousness, peace and joy of God’s incredible kingdom.