26[Jesus] said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed on the ground. 27He sleeps and rises night and day, and the seed sprouts and grows; he knows not how.” Mark 4:26-27
I grew up in northwest Ohio where, in a good year, the corn was “knee high by the 4th of July.” Every spring, farmers planted seeds with expectant hope about the growth and success of the final crop. But things don’t always turn out the way they are planned. Despite the farmer’s best efforts, some years the weather is bad; too much rain or not enough. In fact, farmers know that much of the growing cycle is completely out of their control. Though they cannot control the outcome, they still plant seeds in confidence.
Jesus often compares the Kingdom of God to the work of farmers planting seeds. This is the case Mark 4:26-27. Just like the farmer, he who would participate in growing the Kingdom of God must plant seeds. Not physical seeds, but the seeds of God’s Word as demonstrated by small acts of love done in our Savior’s name. This could be as simple as a phone call to a friend who is hurting, saying hello to the cashier at the grocery store, taking a meal to a neighbor, or making eye contact with a street person. Once a seed is planted, we are to trust that we are not in control of the outcome. We can sleep easy knowing that the Lord will provide the increase apart from our efforts. It is not up to us!
St. Paul said: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” (1 Cor 3:6) While salvation comes to people through the work of the Holy Spirit; we are privileged to participate by planting or watering. Like the farmer, we are to keep planting seeds, trusting God for the growth.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Thank you for loving us and giving us the opportunity to participate with you in growing your Kingdom. Give us eyes to see the needy and the courage to demonstrate your love through small acts of kindness. We thank you for the growth that only you can provide! Amen.
Contributed by Susan Hathcock