Day 10: Friday, March 10, 2017    Matthew 13:31-32

“He told them another parable: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field.  Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.”

Recently, my husband and I had the opportunity of visiting Aldersgate Enrichment Center in Brownwood.  Visiting this establishment was one of the most powerful and fulfilling experiences we’ve ever encountered. 

After this joyful experience, Matthew 13:31-32 came to mind for me.  Just like a tiny mustard seed can grow and mature, so can our ideas from the Holy Spirit.  With perseverance, planning, patience, and a great deal of prayer can we achieve small things that become bigger and better.  This is what happened with men from our own church along with God’s guidance and the blessing of His monetary gifts. 

This institution has become home to young adults with various disabilities.  They      receive guidance, love, spiritual growth, and a wonderful environment.  Again, like the mustard seed, Aldersgate originally started out with a small number of individuals, and now the population is up to the seventies! Isn’t that amazing?  God is good.

We were so welcomed by the staff and residents staying there.  We could see the joy and love in their hearts, actions, and hands at work.  This was so moving to us, I just couldn’t get this experience of pure love out of my mind. We were just as joyful as they were.  It just shows that we are all God’s children. 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, we were so moved and blessed by this experience, it will forever remain in our hearts and prayers along with many others.  We ask  for continued care over all and hope to inspire anyone who has not visited Aldersgate to go.  You too will be fulfilled with joy knowing the importance of God’s Holy Spirit and His guidance in this wonderful plan. Amen.

Contributed by Sandra Holzmann