Devotion
The Mustard Seed: Small Beginnings, Great Endings
"Again he said, 'What shall we say the kingdom of heaven is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it? It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade.'" Mark 4: 30 - 32
Jesus spoke of something so tiny it could barely be seen between his fingers - a mustard seed. To his listeners, accustomed to grand displays of power and impressive religious ceremonies, this must have seemed almost laughable. The kingdom of heaven compared to something so insignificant?
Yet Jesus chose this humble seed to reveal one of the most profound truths about God's kingdom: it begins small but grows beyond all expectation. The mustard seed Jesus referenced wasn't literally the smallest seed in existence, but it was proverbially known as the tiniest seed that produced such a large plant. From something barely visible to the naked eye grows a shrub that can reach ten to twelve feet high, with branches sturdy enough for birds to nest in its shade.
This parable speaks to the heart of how God works in our world and in our lives. The kingdom of heaven doesn't always arrive with fanfare or obvious power. It often begins as quietly as a whispered prayer, as simply as an act of kindness, as humbly as choosing forgiveness over resentment.
Consider the early church—twelve ordinary men following a carpenter's son, meeting in homes, sharing meals, and loving their neighbours. From the outside, it looked insignificant compared to the mighty Roman Empire. Yet that small beginning grew to transform the world.
The same principle applies to our personal faith journey. Perhaps your relationship with God feels small and fragile today. Maybe your prayers seem to echo in silence, your attempts at obedience feel inadequate, or your faith appears dwarfed by the challenges around you. The mustard seed reminds us that God specialises in small beginnings. That tiny seed of faith you planted when you first believed? God is growing it. The small acts of service you offer? They're creating shade for others. The quiet moments of worship, the gentle words of encouragement, the choice to trust when you can't see the outcome - these seemingly small things are how the kingdom grows.
The parable also challenges us to look for God's kingdom in unexpected places. We might be tempted to seek God only in the dramatic moments, the mountain-top experiences, the life-changing events. But Jesus suggests we should also watch for the mustard seed moments: the gradual change of heart, the slow healing of relationships, the quiet growth of character. Where in your life might God be planting mustard seeds today? Perhaps it's in a difficult relationship that's showing small signs of improvement. Maybe it's in a ministry that feels too small to matter, or a dream that seems too insignificant to pursue. The parable reminds us not to despise small beginnings, for they may be the very place where God's kingdom is taking root. The image of birds finding shelter in the branches also speaks to the communal nature of God's kingdom. As our faith grows, it creates space for others to find rest, shade, and community. Your small acts of faithfulness don't just benefit you - they create a refuge for others who need encouragement, hope, and love.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the parable of the mustard seed, which reminds us that you delight in small beginnings. Help us to be faithful in the little things, trusting that you are at work even when we cannot see the full picture. Give us patience as we wait for growth, wisdom to recognise your kingdom in unexpected places, and hearts that create shelter for others along the way. May our lives be like the mustard plant—rooted in your love, growing in your grace, and providing rest for those who need it. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Blessings!
Will Wallace
Principal