But once it is sown, it springs up and becomes the largest of plants… Mark 4:32
A reverie from last summer: Humming along the bike path, settling into the groove of rhythmic pedaling, sun on my back, birdsong on nature’s iPod, I am awestruck by God’s prodigality. Wave upon wave of pale violet and medium purple pixie blossoms cover he embankments and fill the gullies. Known locally as “Dame’s rocket” or wild phlox, these plants grow so profusely, they have been labeled “invasive” by the earth police. I say, “How can beauty be invasive?”
Who sowed the tiny seed that grew so lavishly? No human hand. If Jesus had been born and raised in Wisconsin would he have told a parable of wild phlox rather than of mustard seed? In all places, Jesus is sowing a kingdom of extravagance, a place where you are loved beyond all telling. Look around today and notice, and then nurture the miniscule seeds that are growing quietly, steadily into a profusion of love and grace in this world that is “already but not yet” the Kingdom of God!
Jennifer Christ
Originally published January 3, 2014
