Invisible Yet Visible
Opening Prayer
Lord, the greatest miracle burst forth into the world in the shadow of a lowly barn. Help us to have Your perspective.
Read Matthew 13:31-43
[31] He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. [32] Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.” [33] He told them still another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into about sixty pounds of flour until it worked all through the dough.” [34] Jesus spoke all these things to the crowd in parables; he did not say anything to them without using a parable. [35] So was fulfilled what was spoken through the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter things hidden since the creation of the world.” [36] Then he left the crowd and went into the house. His disciples came to him and said, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds in the field.” [37] He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. [38] The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, [39] and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. [40] “As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. [41] The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. [42] They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [43] Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear. Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
What is the parallel between the mustard seed and the yeast?There are several interpretations of these two parables, but the basic teaching is clear: Just as something tiny can grow to an amazing size, so the kingdom of heaven can have a transforming effect upon the world. The NIV describes the mustard seed as the “smallest of all seeds,” that is, of those known to Jewish farmers. The mustard shrub (32) grows as tall as a tree.The next parable (33) shows yeast working to bring change. Yeast in those days didn’t come in “easy blend” granules. Bakers left a mixture of flour and water in a cool place. After much time, the dough would rise, and a portion was kept back. When this old dough (yeast, or “leaven”) was mixed with fresh flour, it permeated the mixture, causing the dough to rise quicker. Although this yeast became invisible, its effect was remarkable as it transformed the shape and texture of the dough. When we become Christians, there is often no initial outward change. Yet the Holy Spirit works in us, bringing change not only to our own lives but also to those with whom we have contact. And even though our work for God might not have much apparent impact now, the ripples are transforming our world.
Apply
Invest your heart and time in eternal things and know that it will yield more than you could possibly imagine.
Closing prayer
Holy Spirit, work in my heart. Let the Word go deep into my soul, and may Your life permeate every part of me. I love You.
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