Small Sprouts
Author: Curtis and Tina Norton
April 29, 2019
Small Sprouts
“Be completely humble and
gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” – Ephesians 4:2, NIV
Jerry was visiting a state
park with his grandson. He was delighted to show the boy the beautiful land
that he’d spent years hiking. He pointed to a tree where he’d carved his
initials when he was young. He walked his familiar prayer path, explaining that
he often walked the trail when he was praying for various family members.
When the pair came to a
familiar creek, they decided to rest for a bit. His grandson pointed out an
area of the woods that was blackened by soot and ash. “What happened there,
Grandpa?”
“That’s the forest fire,”
Jerry said.
“Is it all dead?” The young
boy asked.
Jerry pointed to a few green
buds in the ground. “See these small sprouts? New beginnings are growing right
now.”
Sometimes, it’s tempting to
judge new or inexperienced Christians. You might be tempted to judge someone
else for their past. Maybe they went to prison, lived a party lifestyle, or
made a string of bad choices.
But don’t trample the tender
green shoots just rising from the ground. Instead, focus on how you can mentor
this Christian. Invite them into your growth journey and let your roots grow
deeper together.
God, send me a Christian brother or sister who needs a
mentor in their life. Give me the boldness to share what You’re working on in
my life and the desire to love them right where they are. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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