Mark 4:31-32 (NKJV)
31 “It’s like a mustard seed that, when sown upon the soil, is the smallest of all the seeds on the ground. 32 “but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.”.”
In one of my devotional readings this week, Amazing Facts Daily Devotional, I was quite surprised to learn that a turnip seed, if it has the right conditions, can increase its weight 15 times a minute, and if it sprouts in rich soil, it might increase it’s weight up to 15,000 times a day. I learned that “some seeds are viable for hundreds years. For example, seeds of the Oriental lotus have been known to germinate 3,000 years after dispersal.”
Seeds hold incredible potential and can be incredibly powerful, but only when they die to themselves. In other words, the form in which they currently exist must be transformed from the “potential” to the “actual.” They must become what they were designed to be. That process is called “germination.” To germinate means to sprout or to develop. Once a seed sprout, it begins a new growth progression that will produce roots that can break through concrete and move mountains.
The Bible (Jesus) talks about faith and uses the mustard seed, one of the smallest seeds in the world allegorically, to show what is possible if one allows their faith to germinate. In the focus verse, Jesus again references the mustard seed symbolically, but this time to show the potential of the Kingdom of God.
The Kingdom of God is made up of those who are followers of Christ. They are characterized as having small and modest beginning like the mustard seed but have the potential of blossoming into grand and glorious living testimonies for the Kingdom.
Just imagine what could happen if faith was germinated and developed to its fullest potential. Imagine the countless people who would find shelter for their sin-sick souls.
Can you just imagine what the world would be like if those of the Kingdom of God allowed their seed to grow like the minuscule mustard seed? Just imagine if they realized that a seed of faith had been planted in them.
Suppose that person is you? Will you allow it to germinate, or will you let it remain in its state of possibility? It’s not too late. Remember that the Oriental lotus have been known to germinate 3,000 years after being planted.
Be Blessed +++
Rev. J. Loren Russell is an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx, President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial &. Strategic Consulting, and hosts “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Soul 1 Radio, Mondays 8:00 – 10:00 PM. Listen by phone” at 626-226-1448. Be sure to Friend “Matters of Faith” on Facebook and email us at mattersoffaith.mof@gmail.com. Order your copy of Matters of Faith: The Book at Book Blues.
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