Farmers and gardeners typically put out scarecrows to keep the birds out of their field. Jesus suggests allowing a mustard plant to get so overgrown that it actually attracts birds and gives them somewhere to nest.
Understanding the shock value of this parable speaks to the radically inclusive message of the gospel and our need to welcome the stranger in our midst.
Hear more in our worship video, “For the Birds.”
https://youtu.be/iEvoWcQwb-Y