See beyond the seed!

See Beyond the Seed!
Whether you're a gardener or not, you've probably planted seeds. It's fascinating to see the first tender sprouts poke through the soil and reach for the sun. The daily growth is magical to watch, until at last, the fruit is ready to be harvested or the flower blooms in brilliant color. So, what can gardening teach us about growing our faith and the kingdom of God? Jesus says, "What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it (Mark 4:30)? The parable of the tiny mustard seed provides a glorious example of kingdom growth potential.
Though the mustard seed was the smallest of seeds known to Jesus' listeners, what could it teach us today? Jesus then said, "yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants" our faith, like the kingdom of God, can be compared to the tiny mustard seed. Although it starts small, its growth potential is remarkable. Friends, the same growth potential God places in the tiny mustard seed exists in every believer. When you feel alone in your stand for Christ, never forget that the power of God at work in the tiny mustard seed is the same power at work in you. Never be discouraged or intimidated if your kingdom efforts seem small or insignificant. Remember, God's kingdom has other faithful followers all around us. Your faith, no matter how small, can join with the faith of others to accomplish far more than we could ever imagine or expect. So, remain faithful, and see beyond the seed! Let the SON shine upon you and keep nourishing your faith by His life-giving promises!
Onward and Upward,
Fr. Greg+

---