Mark 4:30-34

Find a way to separate yourself from whatever’s going on around you so you can fully enter into today’s passage. if you haven’t read the introduction to Mark’s Gospel, read it here.

Read Mark 4:30-34 noting the transition from Jesus’ parable to the larger narrative of Jesus’ teaching method. 

This is a tiny passage stuffed with meaning, and that is the precise point of the illustration of the mustard seed. In this parable and the one just prior Jesus succinctly explains the nature of the kingdom of heaven. It’s like a farmer scattering seeds, and it’s like the seeds themselves - tiny packages that, in and of themselves, look completely innocuous. But these small seeds, just like our small acts of shalom, contain in their DNA the power and potential of the kingdom of heaven.  

Brainstorm with Jesus for a moment about what a mustard seed act of love, kindness or justice (acts of shalom) could look like as you move through this day.

Read Mark 4:30-34 again focusing in on the way Jesus taught in public. 

Do you have any further insight about why Jesus used stories to teach the crowds? 

Which engages your mind and emotions most effectively: cold, hard data, or a well-crafted illustration? 

Following Jesus is more than a mental exercise, it involves our whole selves: mind, emotions and even body. Sit with Jesus for a few minutes asking him to reveal the health of your relationship with him in all three areas.

What do you sense Jesus inviting you to do? Before you end this time of reflection, make a plan for following through.

If these meditations are helpful to you, please forward them to couple of friends.

Interested in going deeper? Check out The Everyday Jesus Follower’s Guide and blog.