A MUSTARD SEED

One of the first pieces of jewelry my sister, who was four years older, received was a necklace that had a mustard seed. It was to remind her that God’s Kingdom is like that little seed. It begins small but can develop into one of the largest plants—actually, Matthew refers to it becoming a tree.

A mustard seed knows no boundaries. Have you ever seen a hillside of mustard? There is a universality to the seed and tree. The seed is the agent of this universal mission. It does its work mysteriously and out-of-sight. It becomes a tree. Daniel used a tree for the great kingdom of God which is visible to and for all:

The tree grew great and strong, its top reached to heaven,
and is visible to the ends of the earth….
The animals found shade in it,
the birds nested in its branches,
and from it all living beings were fed. 
Daniel 4: 11-12

The mustard seed reminds us that just a small amount can become significant. Mustard seeds rapidly germinate taking only three to ten days in favorable conditions. Possessing a fast-growing and quick-spreading nature. Grown mustard can be made into the famous condiment for sandwiches; while its edible leaves can be consumed as salad greens. Mustard oil, which can be acquired by pressing the plant, can be used as fuel. Our faith likewise can spread, impact anyone, and have a variety of outcomes.

This spring may your faith flourish,

See you in church! It’s been four-long weeks away!