For my recent birthday, my son and daughter-in-law sent me a beautiful Hibiscus plant. Well, the one they ordered was beautiful. As it happens, shipping has often been delayed lately and after several updates, the box finally arrived. It was a bit dented and when we pulled it out from the bottom, the poor thing appeared near death. Many leaves – brown and crunchy – fell to the floor and those that remained were primarily yellow, though some dull green ones were still hanging on.
Having several family members who were farmers, my husband promptly took it outside and gave it some water. Then, he set it in the sun and tied it upright to prevent the wind from doing any further harm. The next morning, with a look of determination and a shovel, he found a spot in the back yard and created a home for this new addition. With hope in his heart, he went off to do other yard work.
Within the hour, I went out to take a picture to send my family who had so thoughtfully sent it. As I approached the plant, something red caught my eye. Where there had previously been only faded green and yellow leaves, there now was a red flower sitting on top. Dave acted as though he had expected it. I, on the other hand, was amazed!
As I reflected on this later, it occurred to me: God was showing that a loved one we pray for repeatedly – seemingly to no avail – is not hopeless, any more than the plant. Do you have a friend who seems dead set against even considering God? Someone who refuses to even discuss “religion” or faith? Don’t give up! A mother prayed for her son for years and he refused to budge. After her death, her grandson led his father (her son) to the Lord. We may or may not get to see it, but even under the crustiest of outer cores is the possibility of life.
“Farmer” Dave “went out to sow” his seed (Matt. 13:3). Without that time and care, there would have been no blossom. The potential for life may be hidden from our eyes, but we must keep praying and trust God for the results.
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.” (1 Corinthians 1:6)
What a victory story!!! And Jesus has won the victory; a beautiful analogy in what we may see as dead and lost, He sees hope and life, and is able to bring it to fruition. Yay for the red bud; my farm girl heart is smiling. Good job, Dave!! Thank you Teri. 🙂
Thank you! What a great reminder and thanks for Dave’s “never say die” attitude and determination. I can hear and see Ezekiel’s field of bones rising up and taking on flesh – eternal life. HOPE PREVAILS! Good word, friend.
The Lord wants every one to be saved. We are here to spread the good news of salvation, it may not be receptive, but over time it can be, especially when that person is someone you’ve known all your life and know is in heaven now by her faith!!!
Faith, hope and love!
Very thoughtful, Teri. Thanks!
I love the reminder that there is always hope. That God is faithful and with Him all things are possible. When I read this I thought of two of my sons and my grandchildren who are lost in this world but I do believe that God will answer my prayers for their salvation. There is always hope.