Living in the Spirit
June 17, 2018
Scripture Reading: Mark 4:26-34
He also said, ‘With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable will we use for it? It is like a mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.’ –Mark 4:30-34
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. –Margaret Mead
I always think of Jesus and the twelve disciples when I read Margaret Mead’s quote. We follow the same leader today. Jesus called us to be one; he did not call us to march goose-step together. Another of Margaret Mead’s quotes is: Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else. Surely God created our diversity to make the world a better place not to provide a forum for divide and conquer politics. I rejoice in the engineers who discovered how to provide clean drinking water while empowering local people through the Water4 initiative*. I have not a clue how the pumps work but I am glad they do. Or the women who founded Dress for Success** a global movement for change, empowering women to obtain safer and better futures targeted at ending poverty. What mustard seed of hope has God planted in your heart?
The oneness to which God calls us grows from the shared understanding of the vastness of following God’s command to create a world where love rules and that each of us has a unique role to play in creating a world ruled by love. It opens our eyes to see needs not being addressed, to do our part in filling the gaps, and supporting others doing theirs.
We must all identify our mustard seed and plant it. Better yet find others who share your vision and start a whole garden or orchard with them.
Prayer: Lord, enable me to grow your love wherever I may be planted. Amen.
*https://www.water4.org/
** https://oklahomacity.dressforsuccess.org/about-us/