MARCH 9
THE MUSTARD SEED
The mustard seed, known for being the smallest of all seeds, grows into a large tree. This parable holds profound lessons for us about the nature of God’s kingdom, spiritual growth, and the surprising impact of even the smallest acts of faith. The Kingdom of God is like that small mustard seed—it’s unstoppable, it’s growing, and it’s destined to become something of eternal significance.
Work through the following questions and scriptures on your own or get together with your group, spiritual running partners, or family to talk through what you are learning.
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Can you think of a time when you felt like nothing was happening, but later realized that growth or change was occurring in the background? Share your experience.
- Read Mark 4:30-34.
Make some observations about this passage (What does the text say?):
- What stands out to you about this parable?
- What do you notice and what are you curious about?
Make some interpretations (What does the passage mean?)
- What do you learn about God in this parable?
- What do you learn about humanity?
Now make some applications (what’s my response?)
- How are you encouraged, challenged, or convicted by this passage?
- What should be our response to this passage?
3. Who has spiritually invested in you? Who are you currently investing in?
4. “What is the story your life is telling the world?” How do you want your faith and actions to inspire others?
KEY SCRIPTURE
Mark 4:26-29 Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God 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.” With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand. He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
PRACTICE
How can we be intentional about being a blessing to others using the B.L.E.S.S. method?
- Begin with prayer
- Listen to discover their needs
- Engage with them (share a meal, connect intentionally)
- Serve them
- Share your story