“Consider how the wild flowers grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith! 29 And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. 30 For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. 31 But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.” Luke 12.27-31
Spring wild flowers are the most beautiful. However, summer wild flowers aren’t bad either! As I write this it’s mid July and the summer wild flowers are out at our family ranch and they are in full bloom. They aren’t as plentiful as you’d find in the spring, but they are still distinct and abundant. From the multi varieties of yellow flowers to miniature daises and Mexican Hats to the loan Sunflower my wife found in the field, the assortment is nice. And the incredible thing is that I did not plant one seed in order for them to be there. God did this all by himself.
In this parable, Jesus is asking us to consider how the wild flowers grow. He knows that they don’t spring up all on their own, God uses the sun, rain and soil to sprinkle these across his whole earth garden. The flowers do not grow themselves. Without the help mentioned before, they would remain as a seedling stuck in hibernation.
In the same way, he reminds us about his provision with all our basic needs. King Solomon in all his wealth and splendor isn’t as beautiful as these flowers. He does the same with the grass of the field, says Jesus, and he will do the same for us. He will cloth us and sustain us. So, “do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink, do not worry about it…for your Father knows your needs.” “Seek first his Kingdom and all these things will be given to you as well.”
What does it mean to “seek the Kingdom” of God? In contrast, we might seek the kingdom of this world, as Jesus says, the pagans do. To seek something means we search for it, look for it, strive and work for it. We should do this for God’s Kingdom and not the world’s kingdom. Although we must live in this world, we should set our hearts and minds on things above.
We put our faith not in what we gain or achieve for ourselves but in the Lord. His plans and purposes are higher than ours. His ways are better and his love is true.
Today, allow him to be your provider and for your response be to seek his Kingdom first. For when you do, all the riches of God’s Kingdom will be yours in abundance beyond belief.
“O Lord God, I wish I could trust like the flowers of the field. They do not do a thing for themselves except reflect your glory. Help me to reflect your love. To shine your light, to be your light and to share your light. I love you Lord and praise your name. Come now, Holy Spirit, fill me with your peace and love. Guide my path and lead my life towards more trust in you. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen