Science in a little plastic cup

Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck 

where you do not belong. –N. R. Narayana Murthy

Remember way back when you were in kindergarten, and you planted that little bean seed in a clear plastic cup for the first time? The teacher would help each child push the seed down into the dirt, and talk about what that seed would need to grow.

First, we learned, the seed needs soil to grow in. And water, but not too much water, so it could draw the nourishment it needs from the dirt. And the third thing every seed needs to grow—is light.

So let’s pretend for a minute that we are all like little bean seeds, and imagine what we need to grow spiritually:

Soil. Something to ground ourselves in, a place to put down roots. Something—or someplace—that will provide us with nourishment and support as we go through periods of change or reorientation in the way we view the world. For many folks, this may be a church; it could also be any group where community and trust are formed.

Water. Refreshment that allows us to rest and be restored, water also loosens the soil and allows us to push even deeper into that in which we are grounded. Maybe this is a smaller group, a place we feel safe to question.

And finally, light. Some inexplicably warm something that makes us want to stretch out, to become more than we are right now.

How are the seeds of your faith doing? Is anything missing?

Monday Take time to look for new life: a blade of grass; a leaf on a tree; water rolling over river stones; the wisp of a cloud in the sky. As you study, consider the Creator who is also your Redeemer. Psalm 84:1-4

Tuesday Communities grow and change, as well. Look for new life on the streets of your community. God is present in all places. As you look through God’s eyes, give thanks for God’s holy presence. Romans 13:8-10

Wednesday Spend some time in silence. Listen for a whisper, a quiet revelation of the Almighty. Give thanks and rest in that place. Romans 15:5-6

Thursday We are designed in the image of the Creator. Take a moment and meditate on the image of Christ in you. John 19:17-22

Friday Is there any place inaccessible to the Lord? (This is not a trick question!) Take time today to make yourself available to the Almighty. Allow God to work in the dark spaces. John 19:28-30

Saturday Look in the mirror. Study the palm of your hand. Listen to the sound of your breath. Feel the beat of your heart as it sends life through your body. You are a miracle! Never doubt that you are precious in God’s sight. John 19:38-42

Sunday Celebrate the new life, God has given to each of us and to this Body of Christ. Look around at the beautiful family of faith drawn together in this holy place, and give thanks. Peace be upon your spirit. John 20:1-18

The key to growth is the introduction of higher dimensions of consciousness into our awareness. –Lao Tzu