Mark 4:30-34, The Parable of the Mustard Seed

30 And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? 31 It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth [an insignificant beginning], 32 yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade [and a glorious ending].”

33 With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it. 34 He did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything. [These parables focus on the paradox of insignificant or hidden beginnings that come to a triumphant climax. There was a natural impatience among Jesus’ disciples (and among us today) to see God’s kingdom in all of its glory and the eradication of those opposed to it. Jesus tells us that full growth is assured from the beginning, however unpromising or however opposed its development may be. The way of God is not ostentatious but humble and deliberate. When God is at work, nothing will thwart his glorious purposes. Additionally, in discipleship, none may move on to advanced lessons until they master the elementary level.]