White Mustard Seeds
Edal Lefterov, 2012
My dear friends,
Today, let us reflect on the wisdom contained in Luke 17:5-10, in which the apostles, recognizing faith as a precious and transformative force, beseech Jesus to increase their faith. The response of Jesus carries profound teachings for us all:
you could say to this mulberry tree,
'Be uprooted and planted in the sea,'
and it would obey you."
- Luke 17:6
This seemingly miraculous statement holds a deep truth: faith, even as small as a mustard seed, can move mountains, or in this case, uproot a tree and plant it in the sea.
But what is faith? Faith, in its true essence, is not merely a belief in a set of doctrines or dogmas. It is the unwavering trust and confidence in the understanding that we are all part of a greater whole, and that our actions ripple through this interconnected web of existence for good or ill.
Jesus goes on to share a parable, one that emphasizes the importance of humility and the recognition of our place in the grand scheme of things:
who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field,
'Come here at once and take your place at the table'?
Would you not rather say to him,
'Prepare supper for me, put on your apron and serve me while I eat and drink;
later you may eat and drink'?"
Do you thank the slave for doing what was commanded?"
- Luke 17:7-9
He speaks of a master and his servant, illustrating that even the servant, who diligently fulfills his duties, does not expect gratitude or praise. Instead, the servant serves out of duty, without attachment to rewards or recognition.
In this parable, Jesus reminds us that our faith should not be a means to seek personal gain or recognition. We should serve, as the servant serves, with a heart full of love, without the expectation of being praised. In this way, our actions become selfless and pure, guided by a sense of duty and compassion for all sentient beings.
When we have done all that is required of us, Jesus instructs us to say:
- Luke 17:10
This statement may seem harsh, but it carries a profound message. It encourages us to let go of our ego, to transcend the self-centered desires that often cloud our actions. It invites us to recognize that in the grand tapestry of life, we are all interconnected threads, and each of us has a role to play.
So, my dear brothers and sisters, let us ponder these teachings. Let us cultivate a faith that is like the mustard seed, small yet potent, capable of moving mountains of suffering and ignorance. Let us serve others selflessly, without attachment to praise or reward, with the humility of the faithful servant. And let us remember that we are but humble threads in the fabric of existence, doing what we ought to do in service to the greater whole.
Let us aspire to increase our faith not in the sense of accumulating beliefs, but in deepening our trust in the interconnectedness of all life and in living a life of selfless service and humility. In doing so, we honor the teachings of Jesus and walk the path of compassion and wisdom.
May you all find peace and enlightenment on your spiritual journey.