Every year my husband tells me he isn’t going to try growing aubergines again, and every year he does. And every year we get some fruit off the plants he has grown from seed.
Part of his initial reluctance to grow them is that it seems to take a long time for them to germinate, so he feels like giving up. Then the plants grow and flower but only a small percentage appear to get pollinated and the flowers turn to fruit. The plants are prown to aphids and he spends hours trying to get rid of the tiny insects. The plants need water in the right amount and in the right place. (I am not entrusted to undertake this task correctly).
This year we have three plants from a packet of seeds, with several flowers and so far two fruit that have started to develop.
A lot of effort for little gain, you might say?
However, fruit that is picked off a bush that you have grown from seed, watered carefully, and taken care of is much more tasty than a fruit bought from a supermarket!
God has created each one of us, he has watched us grow, carefully and quietly ensuring we have all our needs, helping us to shed those things that hamper our growth, and patiently waited until we bear fruit for him.
How much more rewarding is that, than if we were all the same, products off a conveyer belt assembly line with no individual querks and blemishes?
Prayer: Thank you God that you made us all in your image, yet you made each one of us unique. You fed and watered us, and you take care of us a s we grow in our faith.May we bring flavour to our communities and witness the joy that comes from knowing you. Amen.