God is the gardener who plants seeds. Tuesdays Greetings from Montreat! Day one is officially in the books. The first day is always the most challenging with the kids getting to meet 30 other youth from all different churches for the first time in small group. Think of yourself getting on an airplane or bus by yourself and striking up a conversation with the entire group. This time can be very awkward and get them out of their element, but most of all it gives them an opportunity to open up and express their feelings or experiences with peers who will not judge them or gossip about them. It is a safe place to truly be themselves. Yesterday we heard God being described as a gardener who casts out seeds to grow with the Parable of the sower and we were the soil to which the seed falls. At times we can be any of the different elements to which the seed lands: Scattered on the road – The one who hears the good news of the Lord, but does not understand it, (Grasp it or take it in) so evil will pluck it right out of them. Cast in the Gravel – The one who grasps the good news, but does not use it to its fullest. Instead they choose to compartmentalize life acting one way during faithful fellowship and another during other activities. Cast in the Weeds/Thorns – The one who grasps the good news, but money and possessions control them leading to nothingness. Cast in the Good/Fertile soil – Those who grasp the good news and figure out how to merge their faith, work, and free time around them. They choose to bring life into alignment. Not just on Sunday, but throughout the week. We all can admit to times where we have been cast into each state of mind. It is time for us to step up and live life intentionally. Throughout Jesus’ life he showed intent in everything that he did, and this is our challenge. God has given us the power to develop and cultivate our roots. Live intentionally throughout life and your roots will grow deeper and you will stand taller. Live life on purpose!!! Today we are continuing our journey with the theme focus of The family of God. Our main two scripture lessons are Ruth 1:1-18 and Romans 11:16-20(21-22). “But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, a wild olive shoot, were grafted in their place to share the rich root of the olive tree, do not boast over the branches (Note then the kindness and severity of God…).” May the Lord fill our hearts and minds with the Holy Spirit! Let the Lord be in all that you do! Yours in Christ, Jonathan Carriker
Posted on: Thu, 10 Jul 2014 13:14:42 +0000