I’d call this “Lesson From a Lotus”, or “From Mud to Maturity”.

A Lotus is a type of water lily considered a sacred plant in the Far East. It’s even the National Flower of India. Buddhism teaches 4 stages of the Lotus is similar to the 4 stages of growth of a Buddhist. The Lotus starts out growing in the mud; growing in the water; growing out of the water; and lastly, It blooms into a beautiful flower. Yet, in Buddhism it really doesn’t matter which stage you’re in, as it only effects “you” and your growth towards Enlightenment. In Christianity it effects you, but also those around you. Jesus gave us our target in Matthew 5:48, “Therefore you shall be perfect, just as your Father in heaven is perfect.” Perfect means. complete or fully mature. Full maturity should be our target.

There are some fish that when placed into an aquarium will become fully mature at only 6 inches long. Where if they were released into the ocean they may reach 6 feet long (e.g. some sharks). We have some cute 6” Christians walking around who enjoy swimming in their familiar puddle…but what if they were released into uncharted waters? hmmm

I read of a story of Albert Einstein’s young neighbor who asked the white-haired scientist, “What are you actually by profession?” “I devote myself to the study of physics,” Einstein replied. The girl looked at him in astonishment. “You mean to say you study physics at your age?” she exclaimed. “I finished mine a year ago.”

Ok, one last story…When Pablo Casals reached 95, a young reported threw him a question: “Mr. Casals, you are 95 and the greatest cellist that ever lived. Why do you still practice 6 hours a day?” And Mr. Casals answered, “Because I think I’m making progress.”

Our goal is to make progress every day of our life!!!

Let’s go back to what Jesus said, using another translation, “In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.” Mt.5:48