March 12

The Possibility Of The Impossible

The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith!” And the Lord answered, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it will obey you. — Luke 17:5-6 BSB

“You are asking me to do the impossible; I can never become a great tree,” said a tiny mustard seed as it lay on the ground, the smallest of all seeds. It had no idea what it could become.

Then, the seed was scooped up with a handful of earth and buried deep in the ground, where it lay in darkness for some time. But eventually, a small green shoot began to push through the soil. As it looked up toward the parent tree, it whispered, “Perhaps I can do it after all.” “Do what?” came the reply. “Perhaps I can grow into a great tree where birds may shelter.” “But you said it was impossible!” “I didn’t realize that nature would work in me the way she has. If she keeps pouring her life into me, there’s nothing I can’t do. Yet, it’s not me—it’s the life working through me.”

This simple allegory reflects a profound truth. When Jesus told His disciples to forgive others “seventy times seven,” they thought it was impossible without an increase in faith. But Jesus said, “You don’t need more faith, just the right kind.” The fullness of God flows through even the smallest channel that faith opens to His power.

Faith is simply the open heart toward God, allowing Christ to live through us. Hudson Taylor heard God say, “I am going to evangelize inland China, and if you will walk with Me, I will do it through you.” D.L. Moody’s ministry began when he heard, “The world has yet to see what God can do through a man wholly yielded to Him.” It’s not about what we do, but what God does through us. As we allow His mighty power to flow through the smallest opening of faith, He continually enlarges that opening.

Prayer

Most gracious Lord, You said, “Without Me, you can do nothing,” and we know this to be true from our past failures. Help us to use even the little faith we have, so that Your power may work through us. Amen.