Lessons from Mustard seed and Yeast Parable

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Seventeenth Week :  Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 13:31-35*

*First Reading : Ex 32:15-24, 30-34*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 106:19-20, 21-22, 23*

*Lessons from Mustard seed  and Yeast Parable*

*1) Small Beginnings, Great Endings*

Both parables emphasize humble beginnings that lead to extraordinary outcomes.

The mustard seed is tiny, but it becomes a large plant.

The yeast is a small agent, yet it transforms the whole batch of dough.

God’s work often starts small—like Jesus’ own ministry with 12 disciples, or a kind word, a small act of faith—but it has immense impact over time. 

The Kingdom of God may begin in the human heart as a tiny seed of faith but grows into a life that touches others.

*2) Hidden but Powerful Growth*

The growth of the seed and the effect of the yeast are quiet, hidden, and internal, yet powerful.

Yeast works silently inside the dough, but the whole batch is transformed.

The mustard seed grows slowly, almost unnoticed at first.

The Kingdom of God grows invisibly within hearts, communities, and cultures. 

We may not see immediate results, but God is at work in hidden ways, transforming lives from within.

*3) Inclusiveness and Shelter*

The mustard tree gives shelter to birds of the air, symbolizing a welcoming and inclusive kingdom.

Many Church Fathers saw this as a prophecy of how Gentiles would be welcomed into God's people.

The *"birds"* may represent nations finding a home in God’s Kingdom.

The Church, and the Kingdom of God more broadly, is meant to be a place where people from every background find rest, refuge, and purpose.

*4) Active Transformation*

The yeast does not stay isolated—it mixes with the dough, changing it completely.

Christian faith is not just private or passive. Like yeast, believers are called to engage with the world and influence it with love, justice, and truth. 

Faith must permeate our actions, relationships, and communities.

*5) God’s Timing and Mysterious Ways*

Both parables show that growth happens according to God’s time, not ours.

We often desire immediate change, but God works with divine patience. 

Our task is to be faithful and trust that the small acts of goodness, service, and prayer will bear fruit in due time.

*6) Final Thought*

*Do not despise small things*—small prayers, small beginnings, small sacrifices matter to God.

*Be patient and faithful*—God is working even when we cannot see it.

*Let your faith influence your surroundings*—like yeast, be a quiet force of goodness and truth.

*Be a welcoming branch for others*—offering shelter, peace, and love in a world of restlessness.

The parables of the mustard seed and yeast remind us that God’s kingdom grows silently, steadily, and powerfully. What begins in simplicity ends in glory. 

These parables encourage us to live with hope, trust God’s process, and be faithful agents of transformation.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*