“ But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely.” Galatians 5:22-23 MSG
I used our foundation verses from The Message translation this morning because the seeds we are planting today are the seeds of faithfulness and I like the way The Message describes it – loyal commitments.
Jesus said that the world will know that we are His followers by our love for one another. It takes loyal commitment to walk in love. That’s one of the biggest reasons that cause relationships to fall apart.
No commitment. No faithfulness.
Feelings get hurt, pride says I’m right and you’re wrong, we don’t agree and so we argue and relationships are severed.
Let’s get this straight right now – not one of us is always right, not one of us has the right opinion or fully represent truth in every situation. That is, no one but God and we aren’t Him!
“Love never gives up. Love cares more for others than for self. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love doesn’t strut, Doesn’t have a swelled head, Doesn’t force itself on others, Isn’t always “me first,” Doesn’t fly off the handle, Doesn’t keep score of the sins of others,” I Corinthians 13:4-6 MSG
Faithfulness: “Biblically, being faithful means being reliable, steady, and unwavering in your beliefs, actions, and commitments, especially in your relationship with God.” Faith – filled – action.
Jesus tells a story that I believe is a description of faithfulness and believe it or not, it’s about a seed.
“Finally, Jesus said: What is God’s kingdom like? What story can I use to explain it? 31 It is like what happens when a mustard seed is planted in the ground. It is the smallest seed in all the world. 32 But once it is planted, it grows larger than any garden plant. It even puts out branches that are big enough for birds to nest in its shade.” Mark 4:30-32 CEV
Jesus’ compares God’s kingdom to a seed. The smallest seed ever, planted in the ground, grows into a large tree, giving shelter to those around it.
God’s kingdom is a kingdom of His love and forgiveness. When that seed is planted in our hearts it will grow, it will stay planted and become an immovable force, giving shade and shelter to those around us. That’s seed results in faithfulness to God and to others.
Water it well and watch it grow!