Growing in Faith

Scripture: Luke 13:18-21

Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? It is like a mustard seed that a man took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.”

Reaction: Jesus has often referred to our faith as a seed which, when planted in good soil, will grow strong and healthy, bearing much fruit. So my first thought during today’s reflection was of my faith being the tiny mustard seed, gently sinking into the rich soil of my soul. It is not yet fully grown, not yet able to support a flock of birds or other creatures. But it has definitely taken root, with its weak branches sprouting leaves and flowers. In my meditation I considered that my mustard plant would never be ‘fully grown’, but would continue to develop infinitely, until it reached into the heavens. On the other hand, I felt that at times it might become dormant, especially during a very cold or dry season. But with the right growing conditions (the warmth of God’s love and the water of His grace), it would again expand and spread. I felt encouraged that even though my mustard plant is still small, it has great potential.

While reflecting on the second parable, I thought of the three measures of wheat flour as my faith, and the yeast as God’s grace. Again, it is God’s goodness and presence that allows my faith to grow. Without Him I can produce nothing.