How big is the kingdom of God? Jesus said it begins small, like a mustard seed or a pinch of yeast, and it grows until it permeates “every part of the dough” (13:21). It’s large enough for birds to nest in. But it’s not so big that it overlooks details. Just as our immense sun illumines every corner of Earth, so God’s kingdom transforms every aspect of life. The kingdom is both small and large.
The sheer scope of the kingdom means that Jesus noticed little things, like a stooped-over woman. How many of us even remembered that Jesus healed her? This was definitely not His most famous miracle. Yet Jesus observed that her crippling disease was the work of Satan. And since God’s kingdom extends as far as the curse is found, He said “Dear woman, you are healed of your sickness!” (13:12).
One problem. Jesus healed her in the presence of a small man. Not in height, but in heart—much like the Grinch in Dr. Seuss’ famous tale, whose heart was “two sizes too small.” This leader of the synagogue rebuked the woman—who was now standing straight and tall— for coming forward. “ ‘There are six days of the week for working,’ he said to the crowd. ‘Come on those days to be healed, not on the Sabbath’ ” (13:14).
Jesus replied: “Isn’t it right that she be released, even on the Sabbath?” (13:16). Even meaning “especially on the Sabbath.” Israel rested on the Sabbath to commemorate her deliverance from Egypt (Deuteronomy 5:15), so there was no more appropriate day to deliver “a daughter of Abraham” from the curse of sin.
The kingdom of God is too large to be petty and too big to ignore the smallest burden. Lend a hand in Jesus’ name, and your small kindness will be gathered into something mighty and massive—the kingdom of God.
More:
• Proverbs 19:17
• Matthew 10:42
• Matthew 25:40
Next:
How do the reactions to the crippled woman by the synagogue leader and Jesus differ? What does this teach us about the difference between religiosity and true religion?
F.O.C.U.S. on May 13, 2010 at 3:59 am
Why doesn’t God just peform miracles on every street corner today in order to convince the unbelieving and sceptical ? I used to ask this myself as a Christian. I now believe that while miracles are undoubtedly impressive, God in His wisdom knows that we are by nature fickle creatures – todays miracle will be yesterdays old news. Rather, it’s the small things that really convince us – and truly meet our needs. The Christian friend who makes sure you’re ok when no-one else may think to ask. It’s these type of Christians that stand out in my own memories as impressive. True religion ? God’s attention is in the detail. And praise Him for it too!
Soldier4Christ on May 13, 2010 at 12:12 pm
Focus, When I read your comment I thought ,that is a good question and one that I am sure that Christians might ask sometimes. Then I got to thinking about it and God does perform miracles everyday on street corners, homes, places of business and everywhere else. Each time that someone gives their life to Jesus and accepts Him as their Savior it is indeed a miracle. I know I count it a miracle that He didn’t give up on me and has brought me through some very rough times and some good times too to get me to just the point in my life that I was ready to accept what He has to offer.
Freexone on May 13, 2010 at 8:26 am
I have to say. great blog. it shows that the kingdom of heaven is growing because of us (Jesus’ followers) let’s keep it that way shall we?
mprez2006 on May 13, 2010 at 11:32 am
GREAT ENTry today!!!!!!!!!!!
lyndygayle on May 13, 2010 at 12:56 pm
A needed reminder. Thanks!
F.O.C.U.S. on May 13, 2010 at 7:19 pm
Dear S4C,
I think we’re actually saying the same thing! The world would still marvel at miracles that appear to suspend the laws of nature – that’s why todays ‘Greeks’ continue to seek after a sign. But that’s as far as their interest goes – they like the idea of God as long as He asks nothing of them.
And yet the greatest wonder is the life redeemed that once was lost and dead in sin. That sort of ‘miracle’ the world doesn’t – and can’t – fully recognise.
I thank God that he did indeed seek after you as one of his lost sheep and carry you home. Praise His name.
mike wittmer on May 14, 2010 at 12:08 pm
FOCUS:
Good points! I’m reminded that lots of people saw Jesus’ miracles and did not give him their heart. I doubt that there is anyone out there who is one good miracle away from believing in God. If the world God has made and their very existence won’t do it, then would they believe if they saw some other fantastic sign? Many people do struggle with intellectual questions, but everyone’s biggest problem is spiritual–it’s our hearts which need changing!