I went for a walk recently and was overjoyed by the sun and warmth. (It’s been such a LONG winter.) I was almost giddy at the sight of new growth on the grapevines. Sure, they were small, tiny buds - but they were very long-awaited ones. And so I walked with a new “spring” in my step. (Pun totally intended.)
But then, God questioned my joy.
“Why do you see new life on the vine but not in yourself?” He asked.
I knew instantly what He meant. The good Lord has been bringing about new growth in my life, but it was small. And so I wasn’t giddy. I didn’t walk with a spring in my step.
I wanted to wake up after a long winter and see grapes, not buds. But that’s not how it works - not in farming nor in life.
So the good Lord challenged me to look at my life the same way I look at the vines. To be watchful, hopeful, and, above all, joyful.
Joyful that “He who began a good work will bring it to completion...” (Philippians 1:6 )
That day He reminded me the harvest will come. But not overnight. And not without a great deal of work.
And so onward I go… with new eyes, looking intently for those little things that “spring” up and eventually lead to big things.
I have to admit; this is a much better way to walk through life.