The parables of Jesus reveal a fresh perspective on the reign of God. They are starting points for reflections on what it means to be a Christian in today's world. Parables are stories Jesus told using characters and events familiar to his audience. But parables are a special kind of story, and Jesus used them for his special purposes. They often contain a surprising element, and in this surprise is often to be found the piercing truth Jesus wants to share with all of his listeners - including all of us today.