October 4

There are some hibiscus planted near the edge of my yard. They’ve been there for a while and are fully grown. The problem with them is that because they are planted in the shade of the oak trees, they lack sun and seldom bloom. If those plants were on my property, I would probably take them out and plant something shade tolerant. Their lack of bloom makes them nothing more than a hedge plant. As a follower of Jesus, we are planted in the sun, and should bloom and produce fruit, so the truth about him spreads to the world. Did you know that Jesus is the vine and our gardener is the Father? He will prune us and cut off any branches that do not produce fruit. That’s a little scary! Don’t worry! If you love Jesus, you will produce fruit. Some till the garden, some plant the seeds, some water, and others harvest the fruit. All are an important part of the kingdom of God. Remember, just because you are not active in ministry right now, doesn’t mean you are not producing fruit. Maybe you’ve brought up your children to love Jesus, and they are producing fruit. I know that I could quit right now without fear of being pruned because of my children. I don’t want anyone to be frightened, I just want you to know the scripture.

"Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit."  John 15:2