Growing healthily?

posted in: Andy Blogs | 0

If you live in the Netherlands, then both of the photos above will probably be familiar to you.

You will definitely recognise the one on the left – it is flower season when the fields north of Leiden, in the Bollenstreek are awash with colour. The sides of roads are dotted with cars parked at all kinds of strange angles, as people seek photo moments, including the compulsory selfies : )

The photo on the right will be familiar for those who shop in a certain supermarket and have picked up ‘moestuintjes’ when buying their groceries. This is our tray of those that are surviving at present!

Whether it is large fields vibrantly awash with tulips, hyacinths or daffodils or a small tray of seedlings fighting for the light, in both cases to grow there are certain things that are vital. These include good soil and the right amount of water. The latter is not one we always get right with plants in our home!!

What are we doing to nurture growth in our lives? Actually, let me ask another question – what does healthy growth even look like?  Take some time to reflect on that afresh.

If you are reading this as a Christ follower, does what is written in the Bible actively form and shape your view of growth?

A plant needs the right nutrients. So do we! What are we feeding our lives on? Who or what are the main influences sowing into us?

As to water…

I saw again on the news this week about those facing famine in countries like Somalia, where rain has continued to not come and crops have failed.  Water is so vital and also something that in a country like the Netherlands we take for granted.  Let’s be praying for those caught up in famine situations and where possible, do what we can to respond practically…

In John’s Gospel we have these words of Jesus recorded,

“He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’”By this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.  John 7:38-39

Christ promised the Holy Spirit for all who follow Him. Are we being open to the work of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives – at work or study, in our families or neighbourhoods? Are we allowing Him to shape how we respond to life circumstances or in reaching out with Christ’s love to those around us?

With such a question, I am not suggesting anything spooky or strange. Jesus promised the Holy Spirit as one just like him; to help us in following Christ in the midst of life –  even now in 2017.

I sign off for now – time to go and check on our plants : )

Andy