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In the heart of every suburb in every town there’s a church building, usually with a tall steeple.  Imagine if all the church members decided to reach out to their immediate communities, offering hope, love, care, practical help and a place to call home.  What a different place the world could be.

 

Lessons from the Hollyhock

 

Here are some lessons the church can learn from the hollyhock:

 

For centuries hollyhocks were sought-after worldwide for their beautiful blooms and healing properties.  Every garden had hollyhocks. Although they went out of fashion for a while, they’re making a come-back because of their resilience and ability to adapt and thrive even in poor soil. They stand unapologetically tall and proud, creating a wonderful backdrop for the other flowers in the flower bed. Their generous blooms bring joy to all who see them. Wherever they are planted they sow their seeds.

 

In the same way, the church should boldly spread the Good News of Jesus Christ.  It should generously share the message of God’s love for those who are lost and His compassion for the poor and broken by helping to meet the real needs of hurting people.

There is light in the darkness, and hope in the midst of despair.  There is a better way.  Now, more than ever, the church has a vital role to play in a spiritual wasteland.

 

Christians don’t have to be missionaries who go into the jungles and preach to hostile tribes, they can stay where they are and “bloom where they’re planted”.