Of Roots and Shoots

Last fall some friends gave us a bush that they said would attract humingbirds. So I planted it and have been waiting this spring for it to grow.

But it didn't grow. At least not at first. If anything it looked dead. I told my wife that I was going to dig it up because it was obviously dead.

Then in the next few days I noticed a shoot coming up from the root. In a few days several others had come from the root. Finally one of the branches I was sure was dead sprouted leaves.

I was reminded of Jesus saying He was the vine, I a branch and the Father was the vinekeeper. What did I need to do to let this plant "abide" in the vine? Basically to leave it alone and not pull it up. You see the root was fine and growing on its on time table.

So as I look around me what is God doing? Am I seeing the same process? When I can't see I can be sure He is working. Just because I saw no action with my bush it did not mean something wasn't going on.

So as I pray for my friends and enemies that don't know Christ, when I pray for those who are struggling with their marriages, jobs, etc... I can be sure the Father is working. I need to keep praying and the leave the growing to God.