Growth Is Happening Even When We Can’t See It

Jesus said that the Kingdom of God is like a tree that is growing, so why do we expect everything to happen so quickly? I mean, have you ever stood and watched a tree grow? Growth is evident over time but in the moment, trees and plants just look like nothing is happening.

Jesus said, “How can I describe the Kingdom of God? What story should I use to illustrate it? It is like a mustard seed planted in the ground. It is the smallest of all seeds, but it becomes the largest of all garden plants; it grows long branches, and birds can make nests in its shade.” Mark 4.30-32

A tree is constantly growing even if we can’t see it and it’s encouraging to be reminded that the Kingdom of God is growing constantly even if we can’t see it.

Are you frustrated by slow spiritual growth in yourself and others?

How can we learn to look for and to celebrate what God is doing even when things aren’t happening as quickly as we would like?

How can we help create the right conditions for spiritual growth?

Trees grow towards the light!
Are we looking to and trying to become more like Jesus, the light of the world?

Trees need strong roots to grow.
Are we rooted in God and his love or are we drawing our nutrition and resources from other places.

Trees need water to grow.
Are we open to receiving the living water of Holy Spirit and the refreshing and life that he will bring into our lives?

Sometimes we are clearly surrounded by Gods presence, life and vitality but at other times it feels like God’s presence is far away. In these moments of disappointment, will we give in to despair or will we give thanks that the Kingdom of God is growing (even if we can’t see it!) and do what we can to make a difference. We can pray and remind people that God is there and we can pray some more.

I hope that we will never come to believe that God CAN’T change something!

Thank you God that your Kingdom is growing constantly even when we can’t see it.
Please, help us to look for and to celebrate what you are doing instead of complaining that nothing is happening because it doesn’t appear dramatic enough.
Help us to work with you to become the people who you call us to be.
Amen