Yeast

Meanwhile, when the crowd had gathered by the thousands, so that they trampled on one another, [Jesus] began to speak first to his disciples, “Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, their hypocrisy. ~ Luke 12:1

According to the Oxford Dictionary, yeast is a microscopic fungus. Brittanica says there are about 1500 fungi - some of whom are dangerous pathogens.

Jesus used the metaphor more than once. In one parable, he likened the kingdom of God to yeast that turns flour into a bounty of bread.

Here likens it to the words and actions of the Pharisees - words and actions that he know are causing harm.

Yeast, as a microscopic, sometimes pathogenic fungi can both create and destroy. It can make delicious bread, or it can cause illness or even death.

In Jesus day, it was considered unclean.

Whether used to create or destroy, yeast infiltrates. It takes over. Its presence is undeniable.

There is yeast that is pathogenic - the yeast of hate, racism, homophobia, Anti-Semitism, Islamaphobic, xenophobia. I have seen it infiltrate and take over and grow. Look at the news every day. But there is also yeast that creates bounties of hope and joy.

I'm sure you've seen both. Maybe as recently as today.

Beware the yeast of hate, Jesus warns.

Become the yeast of love.

Holy Jesus, help me to spread love in all areas of my life that I can help create a bountiful harvest. Amen