The Parable of the Mustard Seed

Jesus told them another parable: Matt: 13:31-32

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all your seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and perch in its branches"

Lesson:

Have you ever seen a mustard seed? The mustard seed is the smallest of all seeds. It is so small that if you were holding one in your hand and you dropped it you would have a very hard time finding it because it is so hard to see. Even though the mustard seed is so small when it is planted in the ground, it grows into a tree large enough for birds to stand on its branches and to make their nests in it.

When you look at this little mustard seed ( * ) before planting it in the ground, you might think it would be impossible for a seed so tiny to grow into a tree. But our God turns that tiny seed into a wonderful place for birds to come and rest and sing.

When Jesus told this parable He compared it to loving God. When children, like you, or adults begin to love Jesus, their love is like a tiny mustard seed before it is planted in the ground. It starts out very small at first. Then when you keep on listening to what Jesus says and obeying Him, then the love grows bigger and bigger. Soon it will grow like the big mustard tree.
You can also find this parable in Mark 4:30-32; and Luke 13:18-19

Memory Verse:

"I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you"
Matthew 17:20

Crafts

Glue mustard seeds on paper to make a bookmark. . Write the scripture verse Matthew 13:31. Color and decorate bookmark then cover with clear contact paper. Explain how God’s word is like a tiny seed planted. His Word is "planted" in our hearts and minds and grows when you think and understand and learn about Him. You can "plant" more seeds when you share His Love with others. (You can buy Mustard Seeds in the Spice section in your grocery store.)

Place a mustard seed in a small pot or jar filled with dirt. Place in your kitchen window or other place where it will get sunshine. Let the children water the plant from time to time to remind them of this parable.

“Mustard Seed.” Parable of the Mustard Seed, for Children, www.just4kidsmagazine.com/rainbowcastle/mustardseed.html.