I am not a gardener, but I've seen others garden. Growing up, my mother planted collard greens, okra, peppers, and tomatoes in our backyard. My mother was a great gardener.
Gardening is a spiritual process. John 15:1-4 says this, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”
Pruning is a major part of the gardening process. AI says gardeners prune to improve plant health, control size and shape, encourage flowering and fruiting, and remove dead or diseased parts. Pruning helps plants allocate energy more efficiently, making them more productive and aesthetically pleasing.
Even AI knows that gardening is a spiritual process. Special techniques are needed in order for us to grow, thrive, and walk in our greatest potential.
Today’s biblical example provides insight on how the Vindresser (God) allows painful experiences—the pruning process—designed to remove hindrances that stunt our growth.
Today's lessons provide encouragement that God (The Vinedresser) intends for us to flourish and thrive by whatever means necessary. It's a reminder that sometimes growth requires pain.
Let's consider my mother's tomatoes.
In addition to pruning, some plants require special processes and support systems in order to thrive.
My mother knew exactly what was needed to produce a great tomato harvest. She understood that growing tomatoes would soon become too heavy for the fragile plant. Her support system included placing wooden stakes in the ground near her tomato plant. She cut strips of fabric—usually old sheets—carefully tying the strips and the plant to the stake. This process supported the plant so that the tomatoes would not droop to the ground.
Tying the plant to the stake ensured that the tomatoes would receive sunlight and air circulation needed to survive.
In my mind prayer is the support system Christians need to thrive.
Today’s message is a reminder to abide in the vine (Jesus Christ). Simply put, we must stay connected to the source that strengthens us. Otherwise, we become weak and fruitless.
Prayer helps us to stay connected to Jesus Christ (The Vine). Prayer strengthens and lifts us up off of the ground. Otherwise, we droop, rot, wither, and die—never reaching our full potential.
Let's stay connected to The Vine. The Vinedresser has a plan for us to walk in our greatest potential.