I believe this is a part of what drew people to Jesus. At first he wasn't much. What drew the first disciples to him? What caused the first women to gather around? Why would the few widows with money use it to support his ministry? Because, like my friend, they had an eye for what might be. They could see the flower in the bud, the promise in a beginning. May God open our eyes to see and appreciate the beauty all around us, even in the buds.
Loving God, our sister Natalie has reminded us that in the bud there is a flower, in the seed an apple tree, in cocoons a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free. Grant us the grace to see the promise in the things around us which do not, on their surface, look like much. Whether buds, seeds, people, or even churches, let us see the potential, and work together with you to bring it forth.....Amen.