Luke 13:19  It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.”  (ESV)

Jesus answers His own question on “What is the kingdom of God like?” It only takes one small seed and it grows, presumably first into a bush, then into a tree. The tree then provides a home for the birds. Similarly, in the parable of the leaven which follows (v. 20-21), a small amount of leaven spreads throughout a large amount of dough, causes it to grow and provides food for many.

This is why it only takes a couple people to start a church plant. If we are faithful, the seed grows, people’s needs are met and pretty soon “people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God” (v. 29). We don’t need to have much of church-planting-growth and provisionanything in our hands to start, just one small seed, and faithfulness, willingness to pray and see what God does for the oppressed, the addicted, the abused, those trapped in poverty, the sick. Let it grow from there. The kingdom of God brings growth and provision. Now go! “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (v. 35).

Lord Jesus. Find us faithful. Anoint our hands to be hands of healing. Empower our mouths to proclaim good news. You are good and Your mercy endures forever. Light a fire in my heart that might never go out! Baptize me with Your Spirit and with fire. Lord send me (Is. 6:8). I am Yours (Rom. 12:1).

In Jesus’ name – Amen,

Son

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