Buds & Souls

DAILY READING

Romans 12:1-2

As winter gives way to spring, I enjoy sitting outside on my front porch or patio and watching the changes in nature as the world begins its tilt toward longer days and warmer weather. One spring I observed the leaf-buds on my maple tree in the front yard. I noticed that they were much further along in development than they had been earlier in the week. And yet, as I had watched them each day, they didn’t look like they were changing. I certainly could not have observed them changing, even if I sat on the front steps and watched them every moment. The change — although gradual and slow — was real and after a time it was obvious and unmistakable. 

As I thought these thoughts I heard God say, “So it is with your soul’s growth.” It’s hard for us to notice changes in our spiritual maturity as we study, pray, and serve others. But over a lifetime perhaps we can see where God has changed us and conformed us more closely to the image of his Son.

We do our part — practicing spiritual disciplines, worshiping in community, serving those who need our help — and God does God’s part, silent, mysterious, unseen.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• As you compare your self today with your self from 10 years ago, do you see evidence of spiritual maturity? 
• What spiritual disciplines would help put you in a position where God can grow your soul?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• Buy a pack of flower seeds and plant half of them in one pot and the other half in another pot. Water one pot regularly but don’t water the others. See how long it takes for each pot to sprout. Make note of the differences you see in the sprouts. Talk to your parents or other trusted adult about how caring for our souls can help them grow just like watering seeds helps flowers grow strong and healthy.

PRAYER GUIDE

Heavenly Father, help us to be consistent in practicing the spiritual disciplines that will help us become more like your Son. Thank you for tending our souls and giving us what we need to grow. In Jesus’ Name, amen.

WRITE FOR THE FIELD GUIDE

Are you inspired by the Daily Field Guide devotions each week? You can inspire others in the congregation with your reflections on God’s word by becoming a Field Guide author! Contact Jason Alteri at jalteri@bumc.net to learn more.