Where Do We Plant Ourselves?

 

 

 “Thus says the Lord: Cursed is the one whose heart turns away from the Lord. He is like a barren bush in the desert that enjoys no change of season, but stands in a wasteland. Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. He is like a tree, planted beside the waters, that stretches out its roots to the stream. It fears not the heat when it comes; its leaves stay green. In the year of drought it still bears fruit… I will reward each person according to the results of his deeds” (See Jeremiah 17:5-10).

The bush on the left is vulnerable. There’s nothing to protect it from the harsh elements of the desert. There’s no water, so it bears no fruit. It merely survives in its isolated, unchanging existence.

The tree on the right stretches its roots to the stream, which helps it grow and flourish. It’s not alone but surrounded by other fruitful plants and everything that lives in the stream. Even in times of drought, it bears fruit because of its thriving environment.

Where we plant ourselves will affect how fruitful we are. If we’re proactive in staying close to our Lord and His guidance, we’ll be fruitful in the ways God created us to be. We’ll produce good fruit if we place ourselves in environments that bring out the best in us, and surround ourselves with people who encourage us to be our most loving selves. Even when life feels difficult, we’ll still bear fruit if we resist the forces that try to pull us away from God.

Let’s take a look around and see where we’ve planted ourselves. Do I remind myself throughout the day that God is with me, and reach out to Him for affirmation and guidance? Do my work, hobbies, and how I spend my free time help me to become a more loving, generous person? Do my family, friends and I bring out the best in each other? Am I proactive in building a more peaceful world, starting with my home? Asking ourselves questions like these, especially as we approach Holy Week, will shine a light on how we might reach out to God to bear more good fruit.

 “Lord, life feels overwhelming at times. Show us how to plant ourselves closer to You. Nourish and refresh us. We trust Your promise to reward us according to our hearts and deeds.”

Thank you for reading my reflection. © 2022 Gina Bedell    Comments are always welcome! Feel free to share it with your friends by clicking on one of the icons below. Thanks!

 p.s.

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Pokrova Ukrainian Church

6812 Broadview Rd.

Parma, OH 44134