Seasons: Fall — Friday
John 15:2
He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. (NIV)
My favorite tree is the ginkgo tree. When its leaves change colors in the fall, they are amazing. There is one down the street from my office that looks like it’s been plugged into a light socket for weeks. The shape, color, and beauty are like something from a dream. I’m always so happy to see the electric yellowing fall leaves glowing in the sun. I get a little sad when I see the leaves finally falling because once they hit the ground, they turn brown and shrivel, and bare branches remain above.
Fall creates a visible reminder that winter is coming. Winter is when things in our region turn visibly dormant. The temperatures drop and snow-covered days are ahead. Fall serves as a warning for thin-blooded people like me that it’s going to get cold. I’ll spend more days indoors than out of doors, and frankly, I don’t like it!
As you read this devo, you are seasonally in the month of spring. We know this by warmer temperatures and things blooming before us. In our spiritual lives, however, the season we are in may not be as clear. For me, spiritual seasons are usually one of two: pruning or growth. I am usually feeling the difficult effects of God pruning me through challenges and difficulties, or the thrill and rush of tangible growth.
Jesus’ words in John 15 make it clear that God is in the business of seeing us grow. As we are tied to Jesus, we will be pruned for future growth. Leaves that turn color and fall, branches that are cut back, and other pruning practices are all preparation for future growth. It’s true in nature and in our lives. I pray that whatever season you are in, you press into the love of God our Father and allow Him to do His changing work in your life.
Friday’s Reflection
Praise God for the fruit He’s grown in your life. As you sing during worship this Sunday, use the words to declare how faithful He’s been to you in every season of your life.
