Good Yeast

The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, til it was all leavened.Matthew 13:33

It has been my experience that yeast is temperamental. Living at 6500 feet above sea level, I have found that yeast acts more quickly, making the amount I use somewhat of a guessing game depending upon the recipe. Generally, the amount is slightly less than what is called for. My forgetfulness, as well as my eagerness, occasionally creates a mess—my bread rises too quickly and falls flat just as rapidly.

With the advent of bread machines this verse doesn’t quite have the “punch” that it had in the first century. But the properties of yeast remain the same whether prepared by hand or machine—yeast must be “hidden” or worked thoroughly throughout the dough in order for it to be effective.

Living in a world of “instant” our patience wears thin while waiting. Personally, I want to see God work fast and furiously! And, that makes me exactly like the disciples who wanted to see the kingdom of heaven descend with a swoosh. But, throughout the gospels Jesus never talks in the language of the spectacular. Instead, his images are always one of time, requiring patience.

Having been called to be kingdom of heaven yeast, hidden throughout our communities, our rising ability will depend on how willing we are to allow God to work us into the “dough.” If you’ve ever kneaded bread, well, the process is uncomfortable, but the results can be spectacular!

Jesus, thank you for the simple images you used
to illustrate how we are to live in your Kingdom.
I want to be good, healthy yeast, living in my
community and by my inclusion, helping it to grow in you.

Amen.