Shelter.

It's easy to read the Parable of the Mustard Seed, and focus on the tiniest seed turned largest plant. It is a powerful reminder that God loves to do big things from humble beginnings. And Jesus repeats the theme when he talks about faith as small as a mustard seed moving mountains. (Matthew 17:20 &Luke 17:6). It's a promise that even our small acts are accomplishing big things.

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches." ~Matthew 13:31-32

As I dissect the parable line by line today, I'm looking closely at the ending:

The seed grows into a large tree "SO THAT the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches".[emphasis mine]

The purpose of the mustard plant's growth isn’t just for the plant to show off its size. Its size actually has a purpose. It grows big quickly and prolifically SO THAT it can provide sanctuary. Have you ever watched a bird make a nest. They meticulously look for stability, safety, and a shelter from weather. They look for a place to build something that won't easily blow away or leave them vulnerable to predators.

The beautiful truth for us today is that we are -as the church- both called to express God's Kingdom by providing sanctuary, while simultaneously confessing our own need of it! We are all both the bird and the branch. When we see the storm coming, or we face challenges we aren't quite up to, when we feel more like a bird, Jesus invites us to come and build our nests in His branches. His kingdom offers a place of shade, protection, and security where we can gather and find peace. And when we are renewed, we can serve more like a branch- providing sanctuary for others while they rest.

Last week I met with a young man transitioning out of foster care. He needed a few items for his first apartment on his own. A few friends and I worked together to get him some furniture, cleaning supplies and a bus pass to make it easier to get back and forth from work and school. When I spoke with him, he was extrememly grateful. But what struck me was that, yes- he was so glad to have his apartment set up, but he was most excited to be able to SHARE his cleaning supplies with his new neighbor! Turns out, his neighbor had loaned him a vaccum cleaner a few days before and he was looking forward to being able to return the favor when he was asked!

If you are feeling more like a bird today, would you reach out to me or somone else in your faith community and express God's Kingdom by taking advantage of the shelter He has provided for you! And If you are in a stage where you feel more like a branch, would you consider clicking here to JOIN OUR RESPONSE TEAM to provide sanctuary for our struggling neighbors. We aren't here just so "show off" our growth. We aren't gorwing just to flaunt our leaves. The Lord allows us to rejuvinate, rest, and take shelter when we need to SO THAT we can step in with our renewed strength and be safe harbors for one another.

Lord, we confess that there are times and seasons where it feels like we are "fending for ourselves". Times when we feel completely "out in the open". But the truth is "God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble." PSALM 46:1. Grow us in humility SO THAT we can better recognize our need to live in your branches. Grow us in faith SO THAT we can trust more fully in the rest and safety and peace that you promise us. And Lord, help us extend a branch of sanctuary SO THAT every one we meet gets invited into your Kingdom. Bring to mind those in our lives,right now, who need love, encouragement, and support SO THAT we can provide. Thank You for taking the smallest seeds of faith and growing them into a life-giving refuge. We accept your shelter as we endeavor to share it with others... SO THAT you get all the glory! ~Amen