On the Parable of the Mustard Seed

From  
Meditations on the Life of Our Lord 
by J. Nouet, S.J.


Sixteenth Week After Pentecost - Wednesday

1st Point. "Another parable he proposed unto them, saysing: The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed." (Matt. xiii. 31) Faith, which is called the kingdom of God, resembles the mustard seed, its virtue becomes sensible only when it is bruised. Faith shines forth most powerfully in the saints when under sufferings and persecution. Faith will increase the fervour with which you adhere to the doctrine of the church, and your esteem for the gospel maxims; regulating your life by its principles. This favour should be the subject of your prayer, both for yourself and the church in general. "Lord, increase our faith." (Luke xvii. 5) "I do believe, Lord, help my unbelief".

2nd Point. The church, which is also called the kingdom of God, resembles the mustard seed: because from the humbles commencement she has so increased as to surpass the greatest empires in extent and duration.  The grace of Christianity has subdued many nations to the cross of Jesus Christ.  All the empires of the earth shall at length perish; but the kingdom of Jesus Christ is the kingdom of all ages, the kingdom of eternity.  "Blessed are they that dwell in thy house, O Lord, they shall praise thee for ever and ever." (Ps. lxxxiii. 5.)

3rd Point. Jesus Christ with the saints who compose his kingdom, are compared to the mustard seed, because of their humility.  By virtue of humility the lowliest upon earth become the most elevated in heaven.  Jesus Christ, in his birth, was abject as the mustard seed, but in his ascension was exalted as the towering cedar.  His branches are extended even to the ends of the earth.  The birds of heaven, that is, all the predestinate, repose under his shadow, and are nourished with his fruits.  He was the mustard seed in His incarnation, and being bruised in His passion, communicates his virtue to all our spiritual actions.