Seed sowing

“What is the kingdom of God like? It is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden; it grew and became a tree, and the birds made nests in its branches.” - Luke 13: 18-19.

A few years ago I was feeling industrious and started a garden from scratch. That’s right, I didn’t go to Anderson’s in May and spend too much money on the pre-grown, lush tomato plants. I actually planted seeds in February, in dozens of tiny containers, and put them under lamps in our spare bedroom. I imagine if any of you are gardeners, you’ve already started a similar process.
 
Although I didn’t plant a garden from seed this year, I’m still basking in the springtime marvel of tiny seeds coming to life, of seemingly dormant, winter trees bursting into bloom. It’s a living, visual reminder of God’s promise in our own lives. The metaphorical “seeds” that you’re planting may seem to be coming to nothing when, one day, you walk by that spare bedroom and see a plethora of tiny buds popping up from the dirt.
 
If you’re a little impatient, like me, you may be tempted to think the friendly gestures you’re making to your new neighbor are having no effect, or that the lessons you plan for children’s chapel are quickly forgotten. It’s easy to fall prey to such cynicism, or to look to fill your life with things that promise quick results. God reminds us, through the wonder of His creation coming alive in Spring, that God keeps His promises to those who are faithful. Suddenly you realize that your formerly aloof neighbor is now your friend, and that the children you thought weren’t paying attention articulate their faith in ways more profound than you ever envisioned.
 
May your life in this Lenten season be filled with springtime awe, and even more hope-full, faith-filled seed-sowing.
 
Ginny Chilton