Luke 13 - Branches - AYWJ 15

Funny how I can read something many many times and then read it another time and my heart is drawn to something entirely different.  The short parable of the mustard seed in Luke 13:18-19 is an example of that.

“What is the kingdom of God like? And to what should I compare it? 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.”

Most times with this parable, the focus has been on the mustard seed for me.  This tiny little seed that can grow into something far bigger.  But yesterday as I read this passage, I was drawn to the tree, the branches, the nests, and the birds.  I was drawn to the blessing that was shared beyond itself.  Yes the seed can grow into the beautiful tree, but the tree grows and then can bless those who sit in its shade, who eat of its fruit, who receive oxygen from its processes, birds who have a place to nest, squirrels who find their homes, and so forth.

And coming to a place to be able to bless others in this way takes time.  It is slow growth to come to this place.  But it is so worth it.