FROM THE PULPIT: FROZEN FLOWERS

The ornamental magnolia tree in our yard had come back. Its blossoms were frozen out by spring frosts in both 1997 and 1998. The tree spent 1999 growing new branches, the blooms were scarce.

But it was loaded this year. And with the warm winter/early spring, it was blooming early and brilliantly. The dazzling array of purple and white flowers cheered the yard. And just as the tree was nearing its peak- it snowed. The snow was wet and clung mercilessly to the flowers and branches. The overnight temperatures dropped below freezing two nights in a row. We watched as the magnolia blossoms turned a sickly and deathly brown. Our magnolia "show" was done for the year.

How much like that magnolia are many of us. Christians may serve the Lord gladly for a time. They appear vigorous as a tree in leaf (Psalm 1) and bring forth the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:22-23) But wheb a snow or frost comes along- a strong temptation, the lure of success, wealth or power- how many of us fall! We lose the brilliance of our former selves.

Jesus warned of a similar situation in the parable of the Sower in Matthew 13. Seed that fell on rocky soil sprouted and grew- until hot dry weather came and the plants withered. Seed that fell among thorns also grew, until the thorns (weeds!) multiplied and choked them out. Temptations and the cares of this world can be snares to following the Lord faithfully.

Is your life full of distractions? Are you well grounded and spiritually nourished in God? "In God we live and move and have our being." (Acts 17:28) Do we acknowledge Him and give Him thanks?

We can't control when it will frost or snow. Neither can we control many of the circumstances in our lives. We cannot control the flow of temptations. But we can till the soil of our hearts by being open to God's activity in our lives. As the soils faces the sky, we can look heavenward,expecting God to instruct and bless us through His word. We can pull the weeds in our lives, by the power of the Holy Spirit eliminate bad habits and regularly worship, pray, read God's Word, give, and do good, establishing strong habits that will nourish our soul. Then we will be able to withstand the snares of sin.

Be diligent in God's Word. Read and study your Bibles, pray, worship with others. Then you meditate on God's word, will blossom and grow!