A couple of months ago, I got an email from a Roman Catholic priest. In it, he explained that while doing research for his weekend message, he came across one of my blog posts, the topic of which fit perfectly with that week’s theme. He went on to say that he had shared a quote from my blog post during his homily and on his podcast, and he emphasized how ‘providential’ it was that he had found my post.
I was surprised by this email. Though I know God can use my words to impact anyone, Catholic priests aren’t necessarily who I have in mind when I write. Yet somehow, God used my words not only to benefit a priest who lives in Portland but also the people in his congregation—all people I likely will never personally encounter while on this earth and could never have reached in my own strength.
As I reflect on this experience, I’m reminded of Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 3:6: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (NIV). I was faithful to “plant my seed” by writing and sharing the words God gave me, and somehow, God made it grow and bear fruit in a way that was completely unexpected.
How can you plant the seed God has given you? If you love to bake, could you make a batch of cookies for a local non-profit or a lonely co-worker? If you enjoy knitting, could you craft a pair of baby booties for a new mom? If God has given you an insight into a spiritual truth or a biblical passage, could you share it with a friend, a women’s group, or your children?
When we plant a seed, what we offer might look small or feel insignificant. But we can trust that God’s promise is true, and He will make our seed grow in His perfect time. Just as I was, you might be amazed at how far your good works can reach and who you might end up impacting!
