Springing Back

My job at a plant nursery involves propagating trees. Taking a small bud from one variety of tree, we graft it onto the root stock of another variety.

In time, the two develop as one-growing tall and seemingly strong-but the process does not end there. When the tree has matured, we check it by using the simple test of pushing against the trunk. If the graft has properly healed, the tree will bend with the pressure and spring back when released. If the graft has not healed, the tree may still look healthy. When force is applied, however, hidden weakness is exposed and the trunk will snap off at the graft.

So it is when pressures push in on us and our faith is tested. If our spiritual life has little depth, all may look well; but like the tree, we may easily break under stress. Spending time in God’s presence through prayer and daily reading of scripture prepares and strengthens us for times of trouble. In the midst of trial, we can call on what we have learned about the Lord in those quiet moments. In Jesus - the strong vine from which we as branches grow (see John 15:5) - we may bend, but we won’t break.

Prayer: Dear Lord, strengthen us through your grace in order that we may face our trials with the confidence that you are with us every step of the way. Amen