JOHN 15:5-8

"I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you do not remain in me, you are like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. This is to my Father's glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."

I have been thinking about this passage a lot lately, because I have been growing this little sunflower plant! I have been so excited to get up everyday, water that little guy, and see what progress it has made! Like really I think I am becoming obsessed with this thing, it is so amazing! Thank you Lord for nature! I mean...guys, I put a seed in some DIRT...

and look at it now!!!

It's GROWING!!!!!

It makes me think about Jesus Christ, and how he wants to see me grow everyday, he wants to help me grow! He is the gardener. He wants to help me grow by watering me with His love, He wants me to produce fruit, He will prune me to help me become more like him. I have no doubt in my mind that one of the reasons God put plants on this earth is so we can better understand our relationship with him and what it needs.

just like I water this plant everyday

The Lord waters me with love everyday

just like the sun has to shine on this plant for a time during the day

I have to spend time WITH The Son everyday

just like the roots growing deep into the soil 

as I become rooted and established in the ways of the Lord...

we will both produce something beautiful

all for the glory of The Father

My mom gave me this cross a few months ago, and I love it. I think a lot of the different things that are painted on it really remind me of the growth that comes from the cross, the growth that comes from Christ. 

Father,

Thank you for all of your good gifts, help me to not be the branch that did not remain in you, and was thrown away and withered. Lord pick me up, show me how to remain in your love. I desire to produce much fruit so that I can bring you glory. Lead me Father.

amen

AMAZED and OVERCOME

.this plant.

.Cassidy Long.

.a loving community.

.a happy surprise.

.the preparation for new growth.

.jesus paving the way.

.your word.

.Benjamin being my best bud.

.the cross mom gave me.

.the cross.