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John 15:1-2 - I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. (NIV)

Philippians 1:6 - Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV)

Our backyard has been going through a major transformation. Early this spring, we tilled the lawn in preparation for new sod. Gardens were made smaller, and we had a large hole dug to hold a new pond. Each week saw a new work happening in the yard. Plants were moved and added. As the new plants were being bought, I consulted magazines and books. One particular day, though, I could not find an answer to a planting question. I took out the treasured gardening books that my dad gave me the night before he passed away. My dad was a master gardener and landscaper. I carefully looked in the glossary for the answer to my gardening question.

As I went back to the garden, I reflected on another Master Gardener in my life, the One in whose presence my dad is now. This Gardener has done so much in my own life, and I am grateful for it. I have also been able to witness to others about my dad's salvation. This Gardener has begun a good work in my life, and He will continue it to the day it is complete.

He also wants to do a work in the lives of those who still don't know Him. He wants us to live the abundant life and to model it for others, in order to share Him so that none may perish.

Let's ask ourselves how we can be a witness to the goodness and the evidence of Him in our lives to others.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You that You continue to work in our lives and that You are constantly pruning us and nurturing us for a better place. Help us to bring others into a relationship with You. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Julie Bowles