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GLEANINGS FROM THE WORD
Encountering an extraordinary God in ordinary life
Issue #185 July 01, 2001
Johnny-jump-up
We have a brick patio in our backyard. Creeping up from between a number of the bricks are tiny little plants with purple and white flowers.
They are a small, but pretty and incredibly prolific variety of violet called a Johnny-jump -up. I think their name comes from the fact that despite their size, they spread seed over an wide area and seem to spring up in the most unlikely of places.
People seem to either really enjoy their presence in the yard or curse them as weeds. Personally, I admire their tenacity and think they are quite a beautiful little flower.
They offer a visual break between the red bricks and they are growing in an area where virtually nothing else seems to be able to survive. Their ability to brighten up spots unexpectedly, seems to be like little spots of hope.
Jesus is like that. His Word can penetrate even the hardest of hearts and bloom in places we never thought possible.
His love and forgiveness takes root and blooms, bringing hope to otherwise dark and pain filled lives.
As believers we are called to broadcast the seed of God’s word. It’s not up to us to decide who will or won’t be the next person to bloom. In fact, we’re often surprised at where the seed will take root and where it doesn’t.
Sometimes the most receptive seeming heart will reject the truth, while the rockiest, hardest heart will bloom with love.
Never give up on a neighbour, a loved one or anyone else. Share the Gospel when the opportunity arises and nurture the seed constantly with prayer.
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone-- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 3:1-4 NIV
Sometimes it seems like a person has heard the message dozens of times and we have been praying forever. Don’t loose heart, God is patient
But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9 NIV
A Johnny-jump-up will spring forth out of nowhere, or so it seems. God is far more tenacious than even Johnny-jump-up seed.
Until next time, may you broadcast as much gospel seed as a field of Johnny-jump-ups, cover it with prayer, and be delighted by the unexpected places it blooms.
God bless.
Kevin
If you don’t have a personal relationship with Jesus, don’t despair. His love will bloom in all who accept Him. No heart is too hard, no mistakes are too awful, no person is unworthy.
Offer Him the chance and He will come into your life.
If you want that relationship, email me. I’ll simply share a few Bible verses that explain why the relationship with Jesus is important and a prayer that will make it possible.
Yes, He loves even you, no matter what you have done or what the people in your life say about you. Please accept His love today.
© 2001 K.F. "Kevin" Corbin
All Rights Reserved