Jesus presents us with two parables to illustrate the nature and growth of the Kingdom of God. He compares the Kingdom of God to a tiny seed that grows into a large tree where birds can build nests in its branches, showing us that the Kingdom has humble, insignificant beginnings yet expands into something that impacts many people.
Jesus also compares the Kingdom of God to yeast mixed into dough that works its way into a loaf of bread, enjoyed by those who eat it. Jesus uses these two parables to highlight the subtle, internal, and pervasive influence of Jesus' teaching in our lives.
We just had ordinations of nine young men in the Province of East Africa two weeks ago. I lived with them for the last four years as their director in a formation house. One of them, when he was being vested with the chasuble, just started crying, with tears streaming profusely down his face.
Here were people jubilating for new priests, and he was in tears. I asked him later what happened, and he mentioned, “Father, you know my humble beginnings, the troubles within my family, my struggles I have experienced within the formation program, sometimes making me feel unworthy of anything in life. It all came back crushing, and I couldn't believe God had made me into a person to serve others as a priest.”
That is how God's Word works in our lives. It starts from the smallest beginnings in our hearts when we are receptive to His Word. And it works unseen, causing a transformation from within.
Leaven is another image that depicts this silent and transformative influence. When added or mixed with dough, it produces rich and wholesome bread when heated. And that is how grace works from the inside out, permeating our lives.
What Jesus seems to be saying to us today is that in the realm of God, what is very small can become very significant.
Let us pray that the Lord may fill us with the Holy Spirit and transform us into Christ-like holiness and the desire to live for His greater glory.