18 Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? 19 It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches.”
This parable is a story told about a natural, every day event in order to teach a spiritual lesson. The truth of the story is that when God works, that working starts with a very small seed and grows into a substantial, supporting structure. The elements of this story are lost on most of our ears. The mustard seed is a very small seed, about the size of a pin head. When planting it is very hard to just plant one seed at a time. They are so small that just picking one up by itself takes effort and persistence. But amazingly this very small seed grows into a very substantial plant. It grows so large and its branches so sturdy that birds make their nests in the branches. The potential packed into that very small seed is amazing. The same is true of the truth of the Gospel. The fact that we are forgiven and loved by God is a very simple truth. And yet when it is fully embraced and lived out it transforms our lives and the lives of those around us. There is no hiding that transformation. When someone rests in the knowledge that they are loved fully and completely, that love passes through them to others. I remember years ago when I came to understand grace to a degree that I stopped striving to be accepted by God. I simply came to rest in the fact that I was accepted and forgiven and loved. A peace invaded by soul that continues to be the motivating force in my life. I am accepted by God. There is no anger or disappointment. I experience an overflowing, overwhelming love that radically changed my perception of who I am and who others are. I feel compelled to love others as I am loved. Am I always successful at this endeavor? Certainly not! But as I continue to be bathed in His love, that love flows more freely through me to others. And I know that there are some who make their nest in my branches. They feel God’s presence when they are around me and want that for themselves. Do you KNOW God’s love in a way that overwhelms and refreshes? I hope so. If not, now is the time to stop and receive that love.
The Arnold Journey 