Today’s scripture: Matthew 13:31-32 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
Isn’t it great to remember back to the beginning of something that would end up changing your life in a joyous way? It’s often subtle and rather ordinary; we may not realize at the time that something great is beginning.
As for me, one of my fondest memories is a first date, walking from the theatre to my date’s car on a frigid January night, with his home-made six foot long scarf wrapped around both of our necks! Even though sharing the scarf was fun and different, at that moment I knew nothing more than that it was a good time with someone I had just met a few hours earlier. Now, though, fifteen years later, I can celebrate it as the beginning of a loving, eternal companionship with my spouse, Dan.
What about you? What about the first time you met someone who was to become a beloved, lifelong friend? Or the first time someone told you about the church that is now your home? Or the first time you saw your dear pet? And for those of you who are parents, I can only imagine the many precious “small beginning” memories you must have.
I think this is what Jesus was trying to communicate in this parable. The kingdom of God is the most powerful, loving reality in the world, but it often begins in very small, quiet ways, virtually unnoticed by most people. It may be that seemingly unimportant task you did for God today. Or that word of encouragement you gave to someone.
This mustard tree reminds me of the resilient Tulip Poplar tree in my front yard. This tree was the “offspring” of a beautiful, towering tree from next door, which was struck by lightning and cut down to the ground. I found the small twig growing by our front porch (which I named “T.P. Jr.”) and transplanted it in a sunny spot in our front yard. Within a year, the small tree was evidently eaten by an animal, cut down to the ground similar to how it’s “parent” had been. But “T.P. Jr.” has grown back to be taller than I am, with its shimmering, green leaves blowing in the wind. Soon I hope to see some Yellow Finches perched on its branches!
Thought for the day: Lord, I ask You to help me see the POTENTIAL of the small seeds I plant for your kingdom, and to have PATIENCE in order to give them the time to grow as You want them to, so that they can develop into trees that give Your people shelter and strength.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.