“What is the
Kingdom of God like?
To what can I
compare it?"
(Luke 13:18-21)
Luke 13:18-21 contains two parables: the Parable of the Mustard Seed and the Parable of the Yeast. These parables illustrate the nature of the Kingdom of God.
Parable of the Mustard Seed: Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds but grows into a large tree where birds can perch. This teaches us that the Kingdom of God starts small but grows significantly, impacting many lives.
Parable of the Yeast: Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to yeast that a woman mixes into a large amount of flour until it works all through the dough. This illustrates how the Kingdom of God works quietly and pervasively, transforming everything it touches.
These parables remind us that even small acts of faith and kindness can have a profound impact, and that the influence of God's Kingdom is often subtle but powerful.
In the smallest seed, a kingdom grows,
A realm of peace where love flows.
From mustard seed to mighty tree,
A haven for all, for you and me.
Like yeast that works through all the dough,
God's kingdom spreads, unseen but sure.
In every heart, it finds its place,
A quiet force, a boundless grace.
In acts of kindness, pure and small,
The Kingdom's light shines for all.
A whisper, a touch, a gentle call,
In these, God's love stands tall.
So let us live with hearts aglow,
In the Kingdom of God, let love show.
For in each moment, great or slight,
We build His realm; we share His light.
Dear Lord Jesus,
We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your grace and guidance. We thank You for the gift of Your Kingdom, a realm of love, peace, and righteousness. Help us to live as faithful citizens of Your Kingdom, spreading Your light and love in all we do.
May Your Kingdom grow within us, like the mustard seed that becomes a mighty tree. Let our faith be strong and unwavering, reaching out to others and providing shelter and comfort to those in need.
Just as yeast transforms the dough, may Your Spirit work within us, transforming our hearts and minds. Help us to be instruments of Your peace, bringing hope and healing to a world in need.
Lord, we pray for the strength to follow Your teachings and to live according to Your will. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
In Your holy name, we pray.
Amen.
Pericope:
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
THE PARABLE OF THE MUSTARD SEED/YEAST
Luke 13:18-21
Gospel Acclamation
Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth; you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the Kingdom.
Gospel | Luke 13:18-21
18 Jesus said, “What is the Kingdom of God like? To what can I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed that a person took and planted in the garden. When it was fully grown, it became a large bush and the birds of the sky dwelt in its branches.” 20 Again he said, “To what shall I compare the Kingdom of God? 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of wheat flour until the whole batch of dough was leavened.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Co-Pilot
