In Luke 13:6-9, we read: “He spoke this parable: ‘A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.’”
She planted two Vitex trees side by side. They would grow into beautiful trees along the split rail fence and provide protection for the birds and beauty with its lovely blue spiked blooms from spring until frost.
Something happened. Instead of two beautiful trees, one became stunted, seemingly hopeless. But if she dug around it, watered it, and provided nourishment, maybe it would respond. It was worth a try. She placed a plastic collar around the tree to hold water mixed with fertilizer. Tiny holes distributed the liquid equally. Now she must give it TLC and keep the collar filled.
Some of us aren’t able to absorb the Good News. We’re struggling. Maybe taking in a little--just enough to hang on. Bearing flowers and fruit? Can’t. We’re not strong enough. Pulled one way, then the other by empty promises, we need help. When we think we’re back on track, WHAM--down we go.
But there is a way. The keeper of the vineyard represents our Lord Jesus. He is the one who has given his life blood for us. He tills around the roots with love. He appoints us to pray and encourage one another. He allows us to keep adding nutrients--to work with Him in the vineyard.
Kingdom Thinking. The vineyard is large and many are in need. Our Lord Jesus has promised to supply our needs. He loves us with an everlasting love. He has promised never to leave nor forsake us. You’re included in the vineyard. Won’t you allow Him to work in your life? He waits for you.
She planted two Vitex trees side by side. They would grow into beautiful trees along the split rail fence and provide protection for the birds and beauty with its lovely blue spiked blooms from spring until frost.
Something happened. Instead of two beautiful trees, one became stunted, seemingly hopeless. But if she dug around it, watered it, and provided nourishment, maybe it would respond. It was worth a try. She placed a plastic collar around the tree to hold water mixed with fertilizer. Tiny holes distributed the liquid equally. Now she must give it TLC and keep the collar filled.Some of us aren’t able to absorb the Good News. We’re struggling. Maybe taking in a little--just enough to hang on. Bearing flowers and fruit? Can’t. We’re not strong enough. Pulled one way, then the other by empty promises, we need help. When we think we’re back on track, WHAM--down we go.
But there is a way. The keeper of the vineyard represents our Lord Jesus. He is the one who has given his life blood for us. He tills around the roots with love. He appoints us to pray and encourage one another. He allows us to keep adding nutrients--to work with Him in the vineyard.
Kingdom Thinking. The vineyard is large and many are in need. Our Lord Jesus has promised to supply our needs. He loves us with an everlasting love. He has promised never to leave nor forsake us. You’re included in the vineyard. Won’t you allow Him to work in your life? He waits for you.