I have a tiny tree growing in the backyard.
At least, I think it’s growing.
I planted it firm in the ground, making certain to mix the soil with the right additive. I’ve watered it. I’ve provided it with structural support. I’ve given it a million glances while outside. I’ve given it half a million glances through the window while inside. Why the attention to the sapling?
After spending a couple of hot, muddy hours in the backyard, I don’t want my labor to go to waste.
When we were promised winds in excess of 60 mph recently, I found myself concerned about it. I even made effort to reinforce it. Before leaving the tree to the forces of nature, I even tried to give myself consolation. It only cost $16 after all.
When the wind and rain subsided, I took a peek outside. Tree was there. Tree was standing. Tree was good (for now, at least).
It’s going to take more care, time, and commitment to help this budding life get off the ground to provide enough coverage to block the neighbors from seeing me step out on the porch every morning when I let the dog out.
At some point, if it grows from that care, I know it’s going to take off on its own.
In this exercise of dendrology, I’m reminded how much I am like that tree.
If not for God’s mercy, care and nurturing, I would not have the structure to weather the storms in life. God’s love for me has planted me firm in the ground. God’s word, like the soil and fertilizer gives me the nutrients. Communicating with God through prayer provides me the water that refreshes. Fellowship within His church body provides the support.
I’m sure God’s care for me amounts to more than a million looks each day. No, God personalizes it. He engages with my mind, my heart and my soul. Unlike the tree, I’m never going to be left to go it alone.
In God’s economy, I cost more than $16. I was worth the life of His son.
Jesus spent hot hours nailed to a cross and endured death.
I don’t want His labor to go to waste.
Time to grow.
Are you growing today?
“He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.” – Psalm 1:3
“Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit.” – Matthew 12:33
“And all the trees of the field shall know that I am the LORD; I bring low the high tree, and make high the low tree, dry up the green tree, and make the dry tree flourish. I am the LORD; I have spoken, and I will do it.” – Ezekiel 17:24
