A Reflection for Wednesday, March 26 by Mary Rodriguez
Lectionary reading for 03/26/2025: Psalm 29, Numbers 13:17-27, Luke 13:18-21
Selected passage for reflection: Luke 13:18-21
Read
Luke 13:18-21 New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition
The Parable of the Mustard Seed
18 He said therefore, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? 19 It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.”
The Parable of the Yeast
20 And again he said, “To what should I compare the kingdom of God? 21 It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.”
Reflect
In the passage leading up to today’s reading, Jesus cures the woman he sees in front of him and she is able to praise God again. The leader of the synagogue becomes indignant because a healing was done on the Sabbath, holding onto the rules he knew to traverse religion and society. Jesus effectively calls out hypocrisy and then he shares what God’s vision truly is.
The Garden of God can start out so small, but when tended, it grows and becomes so much greater than we would think possible. Like a tiny mustard seed becomes a large tree that can shelter many in its wide branches. Or like a small measure of yeast causes bread to rise and feed many. Even a small action may snowball. One voice can amplify and inspire a multitude.
How do we navigate the world in which we find ourselves? How are we to handle discouraging people and oppressive systems? How do we maneuver the crowds and the many who are desperate for help? What do we do when we are up against situations and needs that seem insurmountable?
We can help the person in front of us. We can call out hypocrisy around us. We can lift our voice in protest when needed. We can raise our souls in praise to celebrate small wins. We may shelter and provide a safe space for the vulnerable. We must effect change within our sphere of influence and trust that the reach of God can and will still grow and rise up, even if it seems impossible now. May God’s kingdom come on earth, even as it is in heaven.
Respond
What are the small acts you can do today? Watch for the mustard seed moments, and be encouraged that they can grow. Keep the faith and continue to work the yeast into the flour in front of you, and trust that it will work. No act of love is insignificant.
Rest
Our loving God, in your glory, may your name be praised.
May your Kingdom come, may your will be done, even here, though you may seem far away.
Give us each day what we need to sustain our life and our work.
Forgive us when we fail, and help us to call out but allow for restoration of those who have failed us.
Guide us in ways that are consistent with your lovingkindness, lest we be tempted to be filled with hatred, and deliver us from being consumed.
For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever.
Amen
About the Author
Mary Rodriguez provides case management, working in health advocacy. She lives in Chicago with her wife. The majestic beauty of creation is like a salve, and they are so grateful to live by one of the world’s Great Lakes.
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