Smallest Things
During the second week of July, we were in Michigan representing our missions organization for a Bible conference. One of our tasks was a presentation for the children’s program, which fell to me.
Our theme was: We sow, God grows. Eager eyes watched as I carefully opened a seed packet. The seeds were so tiny - smaller than a grain of salt. As the children looked on, I filled a pot with potting soil, carefully planted a few of the seeds, and lightly covered them with dirt.
Then we talked about what my seeds still needed to grow: water and sunlight. I picked up a watering can and watered our little pot and then I held it up to the window for a couple of seconds. I had everyone close their eyes, we counted to three, and then I showed them our new plant!
Except, of course, there was no plant.
“What have I missed?” I asked.
Patience, of course.
Now I am not a patient person. Like most of us in this modern world, I’ve grown to habitually expect my wants and needs to be immediately met.
New book? Instantly download it on my iPad.
Identify a bird? Scan it with my bird id phone app.
Need some groceries? Order online and have them delivered that same afternoon.
But not so with seeds. While they inherently possess the potential to become the largest of plants, the planter must have patience.
Ultimately, this means it’s not my responsibility to make the seeds grow. But you and I already know that.
Our job is to plant.
And to water.
And then to wait patiently.
How does this look in our normal, everyday lives?
It starts with the smallest of seeds - a smile and hello, an act of kindness, a gentle word, gracious forgiveness.
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 CSB
Based on Jesus’ words, we are ultimately responsible for these acts. Being part of Jesus’ following means we must take hold of and put into practice the way He teaches us to live.
Others’ recognition of God’s love often begins with these tiniest of acts. Here someone might catch a glimpse of God’s all-encompassing, never-ending, merciful love.
After we plant, the radiant light of Jesus and the overflowing water of the Holy Spirit miraculously work to sprout and grow and mature into a stunning life of faith.
But, as patient planters, we must wait as God does His good work.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a small part in this, God’s beautiful mission?
Believe in the small seeds you plant.
Be patient as God performs His marvelous miracles.
Today is a GOOD day!
Natalie