Jesus set the tone for His disciples living in the world when He told them they would be a little flock: "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom” (Lukas 12:32). Jesus’ words reflect several key aspects.

First, we are — and always will be in this age – a small group. Jesus tells us not to fear, so instead of fear we are to be confident and have courage. And it takes courage to stand up for God's Truth. It takes courage to be different in a world that really does not know the true God and does not care about His ways. It takes courage to live among family members, neighbors, work colleagues, etc. who sometimes do not understand our beliefs.

We are a small group now, but we should remember, too, that God always starts things in a small way. Then He builds upon that small foundation.

Jesus did not train 100 apostles immediately – He trained only 12. The church is not – and never will be – a majority in today's world. Instead, those called today are preparing to be kings and priests in the world tomorrow (Revelation 5:10).

It is the principle of the "mustard seed" that we find in Matthew 13:31-32: "Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof."

We are a small group, but we and all God's people who lived before us are God’s mustard seed in this world. And as Jesus' other parables also show us, that mustard seed will spread and eventually occupy the entire earth when Jesus returns and we receive that promised kingdom.

As God's mustard seed, let's be of good cheer!

With these thoughts I wish everyone a rewarding Sabbath!