Peppermint

Jesus asked, "How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story shall I use to illustrate it? It is like a tiny mustard seed! Though this is one of the smallest of seeds, yet it grows to become one of the largest of plants, with long branches where birds can build their nests and be sheltered."

He used many such illustrations to teach the people as much as they were ready to understand. In fact, he taught only by illustrations in his public teaching, but afterwards, when he was alone with his disciples, he would explain his meaning to them. Mark 4: 30-34 (TLB)

Andreea Nicolae lives in England. As she read again the parable of the mustard seed this morning, she is reminded of the time she spent in her garden last week planting seeds. The peppermint seeds were the smallest of the bunch. But because peppermint grows and spreads quickly, Andreea knows these little seeds will eventually take over her garden.

The kingdom of God works in a similar way. When we receive Jesus into our hearts, we wake up to a whole new way of loving God, ourselves, and others. The seed of this transformation is small at the beginning, but as we follow Jesus day by day, it grows roots, gains strength, and spreads everywhere. And just like a garden, the seed of the Kingdom of God also needs to be nurtured. We can do this by reading the Bible, praying, and practicing faithful obedience to God.

Now every time Andreea looks at her peppermint plant and waters it, she will remember that her soul also needs spiritual watering so that the kingdom of God will grow roots and spread - in her and through her to the world.

Prayer: Creator God, thank you for the transformation that is possible through Jesus Christ. Guide us so that we can nurture the seed of your kingdom that lives in our heats, in Jesus name. Amen.