October 30, 2018

Gospel: Lk 13:18-21
And Jesus continued, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? Imagine a person who has taken a mustard seed, and planted it in his garden. The seed has grown, and become like a small tree, so that the birds of the air shelter in its branches.” And Jesus said again, “What is the kingdom of God like? Imagine a woman who has taken yeast, and hidden it in three measures of fl our, until it is all leavened.”

Reflections
What can mustard seeds and leaven teach us about the Kingdom of God? The tiny mustard seed literally grew to be a tree which attracted numerous birds because they loved the little black mustard seed it produced. God‘s kingdom works in a similar fashion. It starts from the smallest beginnings in the hearts of men and women who are receptive to God‘s word. And it works unseen and causes a transformation from within. Leaven is another powerful agent of change. A lump of dough left to itself remains just what it is, a lump of dough. But when the leaven is added to it a transformation takes place which produces rich and wholesome bread when heated and wonderfully shared with others. The Kingdom of God produces a transformation in those who receive the new life which Jesus Christ offers. When we yield our lives to Jesus Christ, our lives are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit who dwells in us. Paul the Apostle says, “we have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us“ (2 Cor. 4:7). Do you believe in the transforming power of the mustard seed, the seed of God‘s mercy in your heart? Is the power of your faith like a dough that inspires you to share your life with others even when at times there are no rewards and praises given to you? What matters is the joy of giving and giving yourself generously.

© Copyright Bible Diary 2018