I inherited a gorgeous Fig tree with this house. It’s huge and very productive! There’s just one problem – the fruit hasn’t ripened this year. Bitter green fruit hangs from each branch, how I was hoping for sweet figs.
It’s become a living example of the strange times in which we live. Daily I wait on something positive – any good to overwhelm the growing darkness, yet what I hear are reports of more mess and chaos. Where is Truth and Justice? Why does God allow such evil to grow?
I pray, “O LORD, hear! O LORD, forgive! O LORD, pay attention, and act! Don’t delay, for Your own sake, O my God!” … Daniel 9:19
Somedays I just want out of here… after all, this is not my home! Yet I’m called an “ambassador for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through (me) to a hostile world. “(I) implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20) When I think of the honor, waiting takes on new meaning.
Scripture offers one reason for God’s delay, Mercy. “The LORD is not slow in keeping His promise (to return) as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9). I have discovered mercy for this time also –
Mercy 1 -Good works: “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life.” (Ephesians 2:10),
Mercy 2 -Good fruit: “…walk in a manner worthy of the LORD… please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.” (Colossians 1:10)
Mercy 3 -Rewards: God “will repay to each person according to their deeds” (Roman’s 2:6) Specifically in the form of a wedding gown: “For the fine linen the Bride wears is the righteous acts of the saints.” (Revelation 19:8)
Though the news is sad and my fig tree has not ripened, the mercies of God is storing up my everlasting fruit in heaven. I will rest in His perfect timing.
ForGlorySake! -Anna
