Weeds have been a common theme in my life here in Ecuador. Soccer being our ministry, we are working with a mens soccer team at night and youth program, but honestly I’ve probably spent more time weeding fields then anything this month. I was sitting with the Lord one morning soaking up some sun, I looked around me, noticed all the dandelions, and the Lord reminded me of something. He took me all the way back to a high school 4-h horticulture class (yes, I was in 4-h) and gave me the definition of the word weed.
As we learned it: a plant out of place; unwanted
He shared that this is the worlds view on us and how we see ourselves: out of place, we don’t fit in, we cause problems, we are ugly, unwanted, unloved.
But how does God see us? When I look at these dandelions, my heart goes back to childhood. Barefoot in the backyard, picking as many as I could to offer my mom with pride. They were for putting in our hair and making wishes. They were the perfect yellow flower, seeing them any other way seemed impossible. This is what the Lord sees when He looks at us.
It was only until I grew older and let the world tell me their definition, was when they started to devalue in my eyes. On this earth it’s so easy to feel out of place. It’s something I struggled with for many years of my life, not feeling totally accepted and wanted. I let the world define me for way too long. But God is the definer of all things. Come to Him, let Him tell you who you are.
Weeds thrive in unlikely places. They are strong and resilient. They break through the cracks and bring life to the dry and weary places.
When the world sees a weed, You see it’s beauty and purpose. We are not out of place, but perfectly put into position to thrive. You see as a child sees a dandelion ~ the perfect yellow flower ~ there is no flaw in you. So much so, that you are treasured and handpicked by the Father with pride.
