Mark 4:30-32
The Parable of the Mustard Seed
30 And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, 32 yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.”
The mustard plant, whose seed is spoken of in this parable, is pictured as a very large plant, larger than all the other garden plants. The branches of the plant are so supportive that they provide a nesting places for the birds of the air. The description of this great garden plant is used here to help us picture God’s kingdom. God’s Kingdom comes in what seems the most insignificant way, yet as it grows to completion, it provides the eternal home for all nations of the earth.
It is hard to imagine, yet it is true that Jesus came in a small and nearly invisible way into this creation, much smaller than even a mustard seed. In His incarnation, Jesus was only the size of one cell in the womb of the virgin Mary. Who could have imagined what would have come of that small seed. Yet, God the Father chose this for HIs Son to enter the world to bring salvation to all nations.
Jesus grew, was born, matured, and entered upon His ministry of Salvation for the life of the world. His death, which seemed at the time to be just another insignificant tragedy of Roman occupation, became the focal point of God’s love for the world and the end of Satan’s accusations. Through faith in Jesus’ death long ago, your sins today are forgiven and you are given a share in HIs resurrection and eternal life. Through faith in Jesus all find a home in the branches of the mighty kingdom that grew from that one cell in Mary’s womb.
Let us pray
Help me Lord to remember your power is evident in the smallest of seeds. You came into this world and saved all people. Help me to trust in you today. Strengthen all who hear your Gospel, that they may find peace and their eternal home. AMEN
The Lord’s Prayer
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name, Thy kingdom come,Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven; give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever and ever. Amen.