In Romans 8:1-2, we read: “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.”
“Timmy, I need your help.”
“Where are you, Grandfather? I hear you but I can’t see you.”
“Over here. Behind the camellias.” Grandfather chuckled. He stood up, lifted his pruners.
“We need to remove these vines or they'll choke the camellias.”
“They look okay to me.”
“That’s the problem, Timmy. These camellias look strong and healthy but if not tended, they’ll be covered with the vines.” He pointed to a smilax vine that innocently hung to the camellia, held the vine for Timmy to inspect.
“These tiny tentacles grab on. As the camellia grows, they tighten and damage the plant. The beautiful plants can’t tend themselves. They depend on me.”“What do you want me to do, Grandfather?
“You clip the vines. I’ll dig the vine’s roots.” Grandfather paused. “Sort of like us.” Timmy’s head swiveled. “Do you think the camellia’s condemned because the vine attaches itself to it?”
“No. It’s not the camellia’s fault, is it?”
Grandfather shook his head. “When The Lord transplants us into His garden, He's the caretaker. He cuts away the sin in our lives. But we have to be His. We have to agree we need a caretaker and depend on Him. Then He makes us free from the law of sin and death with the law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus.
Kingdom Thinking. Once I lived in a garden out of control. Then the Lord Jesus came. He invited me to live in His garden. I agreed. He tenderly transplanted me, tending me, clipping away the tendrils that choked and blinded me. He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves me. Would you like to live in His garden? The gate is open. Won’t you come in?