October's flower is the Marigold. A beautiful yellow/orange flower that brings happiness just from looking at it. Here are two lessons we can learn from a Marigold.
1. Germination
Marigold seeds germinate rapidly. As Christians, we are commanded to go and make disciples. This means to plant the seeds of salvation into the hearts and minds of all we meet, to spread God's Word to the ends of the earth and teach new believers. It is up to each person whether or not they accept or reject Jesus as their personal Savior and we all make a choice. It is up to God to soften the hearts and minds of others and convict them of their sin and need for Him, but it is our duty as a follower and disciple of Jesus Christ, to tell others about Him and His sacrifice for all mankind's sins. It is our duty to plant the seeds and nurture those seeds until they either grow and blossom (accepts Jesus) or wilts and dies (rejects Jesus). Therefore, germinate rapidly as a Marigold, because Jesus is coming back soon.
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw Him, they worshiped Him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” - Matthew 28:16-20
2. Protection
Marigold flowers are recommended to be planted with vegetables because they help keep predators and pests away. They attract the good kinds of bugs such as butterflies and bees but keep the cabbage worms, tomato hornworms, and other destructive bugs out. Also, animals such as rabbits and deer do not like the smell of Marigold's so they are more likely to leave the vegetables alone if the flower is planted nearby. Are we the kind of Christian who keeps the pests and bugs (sin) of life out and are desired by others to be around because of our walk with God and godly living? Or are we the type of "Christian" who lets the damaging and life killing creatures (sin) into our hearts, minds, and life and is eventually thrown away because of the rot and disease it brings?
Think about ways in which you "germinate" and spread God's word. In what areas of your life do you flourish? Be a Marigold and live a life that brings God glory and honor so one day when you go to heaven you can be told " Well done, my good servant!" (Luke 19:17).
Very thought-provoking, as usual.....both spiritual AND practical (gardening) :-)