Three Steps Forward, Two Steps Back

Gospel of Matthew, Chapter 13, verses 31-35
Jesus continues to speak in parables, today speaking to us about mustard seeds and yeast.  The images He uses speak to us of growth and transformation.  But that growth is not linear and that transformation is not always in a positive trajectory.  Growth takes time.  Are we gracious and patient with ourselves in the midst of this?  God certainly is.
We also celebrate the Feast of Joachim and Anna today.