Small beginnings

“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of garden plants; it grows into a tree, and birds come and make nests in its branches.” (Matthew 13:31-32)

If you have ever considered the size of a mustard seed, you will likely have noted it is only 1-2 millimeters in diameter. While it is a small seed, the 'tree' produced (or actually a type of shrub) is about 20 feet across and just about as tall! From such a small seed come what some may say is 'remarkable growth'. The leaves start out as very green, then 'morph' into a yellow tone as they age. The ability to not only see physical growth in the height and width of the tree, but to also observe the 'maturity' of the tree by the color of its leaves is kind of neat. One suggests a good connection, while the other suggests a continued connection that allows growth to develop into maturity - something Christ wants for each of us!

While we might focus on the seed and all the wonderful things this seed can do, we cannot neglect the succulent leaves and stems, as they have a beautiful yellow-green flower that is produced with rather long tendrils (some about 12 inches long). The flowers develop into small pink or scarlet berries, which are translucent. The tree actually grows best in dry, rather arid conditions since they are prone to 'mold' if things are too wet for them. While we all dream of the lush green valleys, with lots of coolness and comfort, could it be that we might just thrive the best in the dry and arid conditions of our soul, when life seems to be less evident in others?

While the older, more mature trees don't take all that much maintenance, they do require a whole lot of attention in the earlier stages of their growth (much like us). The early maintenance is not only important to ensure the seed sprouts, but that good root penetration takes place once the seedling is planted. The eventual growth that comes from the proper root penetration not only ensures 'good anchorage' of the plant, but sufficient resources for its continued growth. As the branches begin to form, the tree takes form. Birds nest in the branches - a place of safety and refuge. As Christ's character grows within each of us, our greatest hope is that our lives become a place of safety and refuge for others who need hope and a community in which to 'take root' themselves. Just sayin!