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As we continue our studies in Luke’s gospel, this week our attention is focused on verses 10-21. Please read them every day this week and, if possible, use a different translation each day, asking God to open your eyes to fresh revelation from His Word.
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Luke 13:18-21 (NIV)
‘Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches.” Again he asked, “What shall I compare the kingdom of God to? It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough.”’
I can’t hide the fact that I’m completely useless in the garden. I think my failure to grow anything is directly related to my lack of interest in plants. I have previously mentioned my affinity with Bonsai Trees but that’s about it. A nice garden for me would include artificial turf and concrete patio areas. I’m sure that some of you have already shouted your disapproval at me! I apologise for any distress caused by the previous remarks. At the front of our house we have several trees that were planted when we moved in some 20 years ago. They have grown well and now stand about 10 feet tall, providing some shelter and privacy. However, I think we planted some of them too far apart and therefore there are some gaps in the ‘hedge’. When I say ‘we’, I wasn’t involved directly in the planting for reasons that will become apparent. A few years ago, I was concerned about these ‘gaps’ and decided to buy additional trees to plant in between the existing trees. As is my usual method, I investigated which trees to buy and learned all of the theory in how to plant them. I found a reputable supplier and a few days after placing the order, the trees duly arrived at my door.
I followed the instructions to the letter and did everything that was advised. As I’m sure you’ve guessed by now, my lack of ‘green fingers’ has produced a number of ‘trees’ that look more like malnourished twigs. They look pathetic alongside the 20 years of growth of the other trees. My lack of gardening prowess has done nothing to help these poor saplings and in fact if they weren’t staked to the ground, would now be laying on the grass. There are no roots in evidence and I’m amazed that they’re still green. One thing is for sure, they’re certainly not growing the way Jesus refers to in our verses today.
Mustard trees usually grow to about 10-15. In autumn their branches become rigid and are perfect for providing shelter and protection from the elements. Jesus is saying that this is an analogy for the Kingdom of God. Please be aware that this is not the ONLY analogy. Very often, many people make a statement that is regarded as definitive based on just one aspect of truth. For example, the Church is referred to as ‘The Bride of Christ’. This is just one analogy and doesn’t convey ALL the truth of what the Church is. We are told that we are Christ’s brothers and joint heirs. How can we be the Bride and His brother? This is an example of various aspects of truth being demonstrated through ideas and symbols that make it easy to understand. They are not meant to be all inclusive and therefore by definition exclude all other concepts. Just like a coin has two sides, there is always a balance to understanding the truth of God’s Word.
The message for today is that Kingdom is meant to be a blessing for people from every walk of life and from every race and nation. It is there to provide shelter and rest for those in need. It is meant to grow from something small to something that is strong and stable in the face of opposition. May we know that same growth and stability at Oasis Community Church as we seek to be a part of His Kingdom.
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