“Jesus said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it?  It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth: But when it is sown, it groweth up. and becometh greater than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.” (Mark 4: 30-32 KJV)

And so our children are like the mustard seeds that grow up into beautiful human beings, capable of great things and inspiring younger children to do the same.  I attended the high school graduation party of one of my music students yesterday.  As I watched her gracefully thank all who came to honor her, I realized that she had grown into one of the finest eighteen year olds I’ve ever had the privilege of teaching.  I also realized that her strong faith in God will carry her into her chosen field of design with intelligence, determination, patience, generosity, and courage.  Just as God has walked beside many of my former students and guides them through their lives, so He will be her center.  She will continue to walk in His light, and that light will brighten even the darkest moments.  Joy will blossom in her heart, and nothing will be too hard for her to handle.

My prayer for all children is that they will be like the tiniest of mustard seeds, will grow steadfastly in God’s grace and love, and will become strong capable adults who will give more than love to the world.  They will give us their Holy Spirits, which can only come from the One who loved them first.

Anna Hartt