Mustard Seeds and Yeast

He put before them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.’ He told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.’ Jesus told the crowds all these things in parables; without a parable he told them nothing. This was to fulfil what had been spoken through the prophet: ‘I will open my mouth to speak in parables; I will proclaim what has been hidden from the foundation of the world.’ Matthew 13:31-35

"The kingdom of heaven is like" signals to us that Jesus is telling parables and drawing pictures for us so we might understand. I have always been drawn to the image of faith in the story of the yeast, partially because I don't have any experience with mustard trees. I've lived in colder climates where mustard trees don't thrive. But yeast, well, I love making bread, the smell of the bread rising and baking, as well as consuming the finished product. Yeast is also a tangible image for me, as it works to provide delicious food for many. Bread can be made in small or large batches, and the yeast works in both. Our faith can blossom in large places as well as small. As we can make bread in small or large kitchens, God's love can blossom in them all. 

Wondrous Creator, you give us signs of life

your presence among us so we can flourish 

and faith enough to move big mountains.

We can lose our faith when plans get ruined

we can give up when it becomes too hard

but through all our struggles you are present.

Lord Jesus, renew our faith and help it grow

for in you we can live and serve with great hope

and you will provide the yeast necessary for us all. Amen