Luke 13

Scripture  

Luke 13:18-19   

So He was saying, “What is the kingdom of God like, and to what shall I compare it?  It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and threw into his own garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air nested in its branches.”

Observation-What does it say?   

The parable of the mustard seed is also found in Matthew 13:31-33 and Mark 4:30-34.  Several times throughout scripture, trees and plants are used to represent kingdoms and nations.  The mustard seed, though we now know of smaller seeds, was the smallest seed used in agriculture in the region.  In favorable conditions, the mustard seed could grow to heights up to ten feet tall.  Both the mustard seed and yeast seem to be insignificant, but will have a great effect on their surroundings.  The body of Christ, similarly, started as a small group of apostles and disciples and continues to grow, spreading far and wide into all parts of the world.  Ultimately, we know the Kingdom of Heaven is the only true and lasting kingdom.

Understanding-What does it mean?  

Sometime last year I noticed there was a slow leak at the diode that controls our sprinklers.  It seemed pretty insignificant and didn’t seem to be causing any harm, especially because it was leaking directly into a planter.  I made note of it and planned on fixing it “later.”  But, with my work schedule, later can sometimes mean a month or two down the line.  To be quite honest, I forgot about the leak within a few days of finding it.  It wasn’t until my wife opened the water bill and noticed a significant change in our bill, something close to a 25% increase in our usage.  When she brought this to my attention, I made a quick trip to the hardware store to buy the supplies to fix the leak.  What seemed so small and insignificant had silently and without much fanfare become a big deal, mostly because I don’t really care for throwing my money literally into the ground.

Sometimes, I feel a lot like I am a mustard seed or a small amount of yeast, both small and insignificant.  I feel my impact on the world around me goes largely unnoticed, which is discouraging and often makes me feel like giving into the temptations of the world around me.  But, through this verse I know that small steps and actions of love result in a big impact over time.  To the church in Galatia, Paul wrote, “Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.  Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (6:8-10)

Life Application  

Lord, help me to always look for the ways I can do good around me, for in doing so I am sharing the gospel to those around me. Give me strength to continue in doing good, even when it feels like the world is pressing in on me from all directions. Fill me with your spirit afresh each new day.

-Tyler Galloway