Episode 139 — Matthew 13:33–35 — The Parable of the Yeast

Hey everybody, welcome to the podcast, I’m Nick and it’s awesome to be here with you today.
Today is May 19.
Each day, we follow a simple rhythm: Slow Down, Read, Notice, Reread, Meditate, Respond, and Exercise.
Let’s begin.

Slow Down
You are stepping into a sacred space with Jesus.
Set aside the distractions of your day.
Close your eyes. Take a deep breath in, then slowly release it.
As you inhale, whisper: “Jesus, work through me.” 
As you exhale, pray: “Even in ways I cannot see.”
Do this three times, then rest in His presence.

Read
Jesus also used this illustration: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.”
Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, he never spoke to them without using such parables. This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet:
“I will speak to you in parables.
I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world.”  (Matthew 13:33–35, NLT)

Notice
What stands out to you in this passage?
Is there a word or phrase that catches your attention?
Hold it in your heart for a moment.

Reread
Hear this parable again — and notice the word permeated. The yeast doesn’t stay in one corner of the dough. It works its way through everything.

Meditate
A little yeast. Three measures of flour - enough to feed a hundred people. And the yeast works its way through all of it, changing the nature of what it touches.
This is what the presence of Jesus does in a life. It doesn't stay contained. It permeates. It changes the texture of everything - the way you speak, the way you work, the way you love, the way you respond under pressure. You don't always notice it happening. Others might see it before you do. But the kingdom, once it enters, works its way through everything it touches.
Take a few moments to reflect on this question:
Where in my life is the kingdom of God still waiting to permeate — an area I haven't yet let Jesus fully into?

Respond
Jesus, I want Your kingdom to permeate every part of me — Go all the way through my life.

Exercise
The rush of life will meet you again when you leave this sacred place—but you can carry this moment into your day by forming new habits.
Habit: Full Surrender
— Invite Jesus into One Area of Your Life
You've Been Keeping Separate from Your Faith
Today's habit is an act of full permission: identify one area of your life that has been operating somewhat independently of your faith - your finances, your ambitions, your entertainment, your relationships — and specifically invite Jesus into it today.
This might feel uncomfortable. That discomfort is probably a signal that this is exactly the right area to address.
Pray specifically: "Jesus, I haven't really let You into this part of my life.
I open it to You now. Permeate this too. Let Your kingdom work its way through even here - and change the texture of this area the way yeast changes dough."Before you do, pray: “Jesus, I don’t just want to be a hearer. I want to be a doer. Show me the one step that’s in front of me today — and give me the courage to take it.”

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That’s your two minutes with Jesus for today.
Now, take what you’ve heard…share it and live it.
Until next time, keep slowing down, keep listening, and keep walking with Jesus.