Little seeds that grow

“Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we use to describe it?  It is like a mustard seed, which is smallest of all seeds on earth. Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade.” Mark 4:30-32 (NIV)
“Strong Roots” is the name of the ministry here. But every plant from the smallest weed to the largest tree begins with a seed.
Sometimes that seed is planted in the life of a child, by smiling, asking their name, playing games and handing out snacks. Some children here, due to their family circumstances, have little opportunity to break free of poverty. Child sponsorship is a way to extend a helping hand and plant seeds towards a child’s future.
The fun and games today, turned out to be much easier, in part because only about 30 kids showed up. Also, we figured out how to make a microphone work, which was helpful and we had Shiena to translate for us when needed. Though the children receive English instruction in school, it often takes a few years before they become proficient.
Dorie told the Watermelon story, about a little boy who couldn’t wait to eat a watermelon his Mom had promised him. He started by pulling out a little plug from the watermelon and sticking it back in. Eventually, he ate the whole thing. Then to cover his misdeed, went out and buried the thing, seeds and all in the backyard. Sometime later, his Mom found the evidence-- a watermelon plant that grew from one of the seeds.
Next week, we hope to scatter more seeds during VBS, where the children will learn that God’s loves them so much that he sent Jesus to save them from their sins. Pray that the Holy Spirit would stir the hearts of these young ones to understand and receive the gospel with open hearts and that the enemy would not snatch that seed away.
Shiena is a young woman who received a sponsorship from 4th grade. She is very grateful for the support she has received, which has enabled her to attend University, taking a degree in microbiology and education. She has returned to Yapak and enjoys teaching Grade 2 at the local school and helping out here on the worship team and with Sunday school. Many of the children who attended today are from her school.
Little seeds grow into plants and eventually bear fruit. We are blessed to be part of the scattering and watering ministry. Pray that strong roots will grow.