Light My Path Ministries

Spring has arrived in Texas! After a record breaking winter in the DFW area (12 inches of snow within 24 hours!) the perennials have awakened with vigorous growth. In my garden some of my favorite perennials, Mexican mint marigold and Texas Aster, have generously multiplied, outgrown their beds and are threatening not only their own well-being but are also inhibiting the welfare and growth of their companion plants. I have begun dividing and transplanting these overachievers not only to enhance other areas of my landscape but also to maximize their blooms and keep them from infringing on the survival and maturation of the neighboring plants.
Transplanting temporarily sends them into a melt-down causing wilt and droop but by the beginning of summer they will have established themselves, spreading out, multiplying, and permanently rooting themselves in their new niche. Watching these perennials go through this cycle of growth, crowding out other plants, needing to be divided and transplanted prompts me to meditate on why God has instructed and at times forced his people (since the beginning of creation) to multiply and spread out: leaving a safe environment and taking the aroma of Christ to those who are saved and perishing (II Corinthians 2:14-16).
I ponder the advantages afforded us and others when we get out of our safe zones and submit to God’s instructions to “spread out”. Perhaps this command is not only for the benefit of those who need to hear about the Savior of the world as I have always thought but does “spreading out” challenge us to grow in greater faith and dependence on God? Does “spreading out” encourage and facilitate growth in those who we might have unintentionally intimidated or overwhelmed by our zealousness and spiritual growth? Does “spreading out” impel all of us, strong or weak, passive or aggressive, to grow, flourish and bear fruit as God expects of us?
How can you transplant yourself so that you can grow and at the same time encourage others to grow and flourish in the knowledge of God and our Savior Jesus Christ? How can you enhance God’s kingdom and at the same time empower those around you to mature in their faith?