Scripture
With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them as much as they could understand.

Observation
Jesus tells two parables with similar meanings.

In the first parable a man scatters seed and it grows to produce grain until it is ready to be harvested. The second parable is about mustard seed that grows until it becomes big enough to support birds on its branches.

Jesus did not teach without using parables.

Application
Parables work in two ways- they illuminate and hide at the same time. They illuminate by providing a connection between the unseen spiritual realm with the experienced physical world. The kingdom of God is like a seed that grows or a loving father or a woman who loses a coin.

Parables also conceal the truth. They require us to think and to dig deeper into the heart of God. If God's kingdom is like a seed that grows by itself, does that mean I can sit back and do nothing? Or does it mean that I have to get ready for the harvest? What is God saying to me in this?

Parables sort out those who are truly spiritual and in love with God's ways from those who are looking for a religious easy path to salvation.

God's kingdom is like a mother who sees that her toddler should be capable of feeding himself and so she puts a plate in front of him loaded with small pieces of fruit of various kinds.

Prayer
Father help me to dig deeper into your word to grow my relationship with you. Help me to seek you diligently every day. Amen.