Friday, May 04, 2007

The Power of Small Beginings

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.
-Margaret Mead

Jesus said, "What is God's kingdom like? What can I compare it with? It is like what happens when someone plants a mustard seed in a garden. The seed grows as big as a tree, and birds nest in its branches." Then Jesus said, "What can I compare God's kingdom with? It is like what happens when a woman mixes yeast into three batches of flour. Finally, all the dough rises." - Luke 13: 18-21 (CEV)


In the next few days, the Long-Range Planning Committee will be completing its vision report for Ankeny Christian Church. The members of the committee will tell you that it has been a long, difficult challenge to produce the report.

I am excited to see the report take shape. I believe that the committee has done a tremendous job of listening to how God is speaking to Ankeny Christian Church through her people. The report lifts that vision for all to see.

When it is presented, some may wonder why something so simple to so long to produce. Others may doubt that the effort has been worthwhile. Frankly, whether or not it makes a difference depends upon whether a few people see and understand the vision, then commit to making it the reality.

Margaret Mead is completely right. It only takes a few committed people to transform the world.

It is a principle of nature. God built it into the universe Jesus knew it well. Tiny seeds create big trees. Tiny eggs create beautiful birds. The faith the size of a mustard seed can move mountains. A tiny bit of leaven lifts the entire loaf of bread.
In fact, Jesus uses the principle of leaven and the loaf to teach us about God's realm.
What is the seed that God has planted within your heart? Are you providing it the soil and moisture that it needs to grow to its full potential?