People promise lots of things, don’t they? Like, “You can count on me to…”, “Don’t worry, I’ve got your back.”, “Just give me a call and I will be there to help.” As I navigate relationships, I learn who I can count on to follow through and who will probably not be true to their word.
This past summer has been intense, with me cultivating produce for sale at the farm market and at Second Harvest. Planting and harvesting in the rain, ninety-degree days, crops plagued by fungus, and the endless bug bites comprised the smorgasbord of challenges.
By July, I wondered if my not-so-young body would hold up, and would the harvest be worth the sacrifice? Five years ago, I sensed a divine nudge to plant a garden and share the crops and experience with others. Despite many mistakes over these five years, I’m learning a bunch, making new friends, and sharing delicious organic vegetables with many.
Due to my advancing age, this season seemed the most daunting. By mid-season, I had this conversation with God. “Abba, You inspired me to grow vegetables, have been faithful to send teachers to correct mistakes, helpers for heavy lifting, and Joel’s great support at the market, but I’m so tired.”
As my exhausted body rested on the couch one afternoon, I found this verse – “I will be your God throughout your lifetime–until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you.” (NLT: Isaiah 46: 4) Well, that verse and God’s promise became part of my daily prayers.
Was the suffering worth it? Did God’s strength carry me to the end of a successful agricultural season? I will give you a resounding yes!! The truth is, if people do what God calls them to do, in His strength, and in His way, He will always be faithful to His promises.
I know God made me in His image; therefore, I’m valuable to Him, and I can trust His promise to carry me. The time will come when He instructs me to lay down my shovel and hoe. But until that day, Bonnie, Joel, and our precious Father God will continue to grow beautiful produce together