In Luke 13:10-17 and 14:1-6  Jesus heals on the Sabbath.  In the first passage there is a woman who has been bent double for 18 years, unable to stand straight.  In the second, there is a man "suffering from dropsy."  The first event happened in a synagogue and the second at the house of a Pharisee.  In the first, Jesus is condemned by the synagogue official, but in the second He is simply watched in silence.

Jesus speaks up about the hypocrisy of those who would care for their animals... giving them water.. or even pulling them out of a well... but, having no compassion on their fellow countryman or woman.

The first group was humiliated in front of the multitude.  The second group couldn't have answered if they wanted to.. for they knew Jesus was right.

Jesus was doing "glorious things" and the multitudes were rejoicing.  Never-the-less, Jesus was headed to Jerusalem, knowing that He would die there.

The "kingdom of God"... Jesus says, "..is like a mustard seed, which a man took and threw into his own garden; and it grew and became a tree; and the birds of the air nested in its branches."  He also compares the kingdom of God to leaven..hidden "in three pecks of meal, until it was all leavened." 
There is a mystery to the ways of God as He builds His Kingdom. He plants small seeds.  He hides truths in secret places. He does things His way.  And His ways are always perfect!

Father, help me to hear Your Word, to understand, and to grow in the knowledge of the Lord and in faith.  I am reminded from these passages that You desire for us to show compassion and kindness to those in need.  I hear You teaching that it is not always big and spectacular miracles that bring the Kingdom into people's lives.. but small seeds planted into hearts can produce great results for Your glory and honor.  May I be faithful in adding leaven.. the leaven of truth and love and grace.. into the lives of those around me.  Your will be done, Lord. In Jesus' name. Amen.