The Dough That Began to Rise

Jesus told a short story about a woman making bread. He wanted to explain how God's kingdom works.

The woman had a large amount of flour.

She took a little yeast and mixed it into the dough.

The yeast was hidden inside. She could not see it as before, but it was there.

The woman kneaded the dough with her hands. She folded it and pressed it together.

Then she let it rest.

Little by little, the dough began to change.

The yeast worked from the inside. It changed more than one small piece. Its work reached all the dough.

The dough rose and was ready for baking.

A small amount of yeast had made a big change.

Jesus taught that God's love can change our lives from the inside.

It is more than looking good when someone watches. God wants to help us have hearts that love.

Imagine a friend takes the toy you were using. You may feel angry. That feeling does not make you less loved.

But you can ask for help, speak without hitting, and look for a solution. Little by little, you learn a better way to act.

Or you may notice someone sitting alone. God's love can help you think of that person and go closer.

What we receive from Jesus begins to show in our words and actions.

We may not notice every change each day. Like the dough, we are growing.

We can pray simply and practice Jesus' teaching with our families. He invites his love to help us inside.

Jesus tells us a story, and his love stays with us.