I have often wondered why certain plants thrive and grow well, when others become limp and eventually succumb to the heap of no return (the compost). I planted a row of Chinese Lanterns along my rather dilapidated back fence last autumn (probably not the best time to plant I know) and lovingly tended them with water, fertiliser and prayers, then watched as some grew and others didn’t.
Surveying my labour, some ever helpful co-gardeners explained to me, after I had planted them, that under trees was probably not the best position for them. (Always the advice after I plant?) I thought about myself as I pulled up the latest Chinese Lantern fatality, and realised I have been planted in some pretty unattractive spaces myself.
I have worked in offices where malicious gossip was called - networking, a harsh judgment - coaching and a cruel remark - feedback. Now as a Christian, one knows that one should not get caught up in such, but like whirlwinds they try to drag you in.
Throughout all the causalities from the eye gouging, ambitious clawing, and ‘if you don’t love me you’re sacked’ positions, I endured. How you ask? Just like one of my Chinese Lanterns, the stronger the plant, the better chance of it surviving and growing to its full potential.
I became a strong plant and the only way to do this, was, and is, by staying well and truly watered and fertilised by Jesus himself. He is my source of strength. I listen to His voice and when the noise of the office grows loud, I retreat to my spiritual garden where He feeds me on love.
I guess that is what the Chinese Lanterns did that survived. They feed on good fertiliser. It works for me.
God Bless.
Annie
Surveying my labour, some ever helpful co-gardeners explained to me, after I had planted them, that under trees was probably not the best position for them. (Always the advice after I plant?) I thought about myself as I pulled up the latest Chinese Lantern fatality, and realised I have been planted in some pretty unattractive spaces myself.
I have worked in offices where malicious gossip was called - networking, a harsh judgment - coaching and a cruel remark - feedback. Now as a Christian, one knows that one should not get caught up in such, but like whirlwinds they try to drag you in.
Throughout all the causalities from the eye gouging, ambitious clawing, and ‘if you don’t love me you’re sacked’ positions, I endured. How you ask? Just like one of my Chinese Lanterns, the stronger the plant, the better chance of it surviving and growing to its full potential.
I became a strong plant and the only way to do this, was, and is, by staying well and truly watered and fertilised by Jesus himself. He is my source of strength. I listen to His voice and when the noise of the office grows loud, I retreat to my spiritual garden where He feeds me on love.
I guess that is what the Chinese Lanterns did that survived. They feed on good fertiliser. It works for me.
God Bless.
Annie