There will be an abundance of grain in the earth, on the top of the mountains; its fruit shall wave like Lebanon; and those of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth. (Psalm 72:16)
The Hebrew word that is translated as abundance, interestingly, means a “handful” or a “fistful,” which prompts the thought, how does a mere handful constitute an abundance? Jewish commentators suggest this word as used in this verse, not only describes literal prosperity that occurs under the leadership of a righteous king, but also serves as an allegory. It is said that a wise teacher will focus his time and energy on a “handful” of devoted disciples who will grow and mature into plants that disseminate his teaching and wisdom.
Based on this interpretation, it can be further expounded to mean that wise teaching can take root, not only in rich, fertile soil but also on the tops of the mountains — in other words, in areas where one would not expect to find grain prospering. Prospering so much, in fact, that the stalks of grain are likened to the huge fruits that grow in the lowlands of Lebanon.
All of this should be triggering your memory banks. Messiah took a handful of imperfect but committed men who, filled with the Spirit of God and the Word of the Lord, shared the Good News of the Kingdom in Judea, Samaria and the world. These few disciples made many more disciples which resulted in the Gospel taking root in places that none of them could have imagined. For instance, Peter was stunned to discover that even Gentiles were receptive to the Seed of the Word saying, “I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (Acts 10:34-35).
This points us back to one of the last things Messiah instructed His disciples, and by extension, you and me: “Go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). We are to go into the field, that is the world, and sow the Good Seed, the Word of God. When we sow, another will water and then God will give the increase. Wherever we find ourselves, and in whatever situation, it is our duty to sow the seed. What may start as a handful can become a great increase, and so let’s not get distracted by the busyness of ministry; let’s stay focused on its purpose.
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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