When speaking about the Kingdom, Jesus uses two comparisons in today's gospel (Luke 13: 18-21) - a mustard seed and yeast. Both of these are ways that we can think about the importance of even the smallest action and how the tiniest things can impact the larger reality. Many people often feel that they cannot make any difference in the world. "After all", they reason, "I am only one person. What can I do?"
The Lord tried to explain that one person may not seem to have much power to change things, but that even our small efforts can make a difference.
Have you ever been having a really bad day and encountered someone who, with a brief word or perhaps just a smile, changed your mood entirely? This is an affirmation that one person can make a difference. It may not have seemed like much to anyone else, but for you, it was a lot. You and I have that power - the power to make a difference, even if it is only in the life of one person. And, when we give someone hope, joy, encouragement, affirmation, laughter, or any other positive experience, they are much more likely to pass it on to others.
That tiny mustard seed may have started our small, but without it the birds would not have been able to live in the branches. The small grains of yeast are what make the loaf of bread rise - each one impacting the dough around it in its own small way. One person may not seem very powerful, but when you team up with God you are amazingly powerful. You see, God needs our voice and our hands to change this world. Partnered with Him, we can and will do amazing things. The only thing necessary is to take advantage of the opportunities presented to us each day. So, who will you affirm this day with an encouraging word? Who will benefit from your smile? Who will know God loves them because you take a moment to listen to them? For whom will you be the yeast that help them rise?
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