Make disciples like the mangrove.

While finishing our morning Bible study, one of my sons made an excellent analogy. “You know, dad, it sounds like the mangrove trees around here. They have these seeds that are almost mature before they are released,” he said. “I’m not sure what you’re talking about,” I said. “Let me explain,” he replied.

My son then went on to explain how mangrove trees reproduce. It turns out that, like terrestrial plants, mangroves reproduce by flowering, with pollination occurring via wind and insects. However, unlike many other plants, the seeds remain attached to the parent tree once pollinated.

The reason for this process is for the tree to have a better chance of survival. In addition, this reproductive process allows the tree to mature to a healthy size before dropping into the waters below. Once they fall off, these small trees take root close to their parent and become part of a larger community.

On the other hand, they can be swept by the tide and “land” in another area to populate and grow. This natural process is an excellent example of how to disciple someone. Whether it’s your family member or a friend, discipleship is about helping others mature to the point they are ready to be released.

This is an excellent example of how to help others draw closer to Christ and, in the process, model the same for another person. Also, like the mangrove seedling that falls to the ground, Scripture reminds us that discipleship is not always predictable but should always lead to reproduction.

Let’s make disciples like the mangrove.

Daily Directive:

Answer and Journal the Following

Read:

Matthew 28:19-20
¹⁹Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

Pray:

First pray for insight and understanding of this good word and of true discipleship .

Meditate

Contemplate and meditate on or memorize the passage. How would you describe discipleship?

Show and Share:

How will you study and apply this Biblical truth to your life and disciple others? Who comes to mind?