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March 2007 |
| Body, Mind & Spirit |
Plant a peach tree
By Todd Outcult
Some years ago, I read a theological proverb that said, "If you want to get on God's time - plant a peach tree." As I thought about this saying, it occurred to me that there is much wisdom and depth here.
In the proverb, we can see the truth that God's time is not our time. In tree years, it takes four to five human years before a peach tree will begin to bear fruit. We can't rush God. Furthermore, planting a peach tree is an act of faith. There are harsh elements to contend with, the prospect that some trees won't survive, the realities and brutalities of the world. Still, a tree offers the hope of fruit.
Finally, as any good farmer knows, planting a peach tree requires our partnership with God - our participation in the growth and potential of the tree. There is watering and fertilizing that can help the tree along. Pruning (discipline) that can produce greater productivity. Insect control and blanketing don't hurt either.
I'm actively attempting to get on God's time. For the past two years, I've planted peach trees (along with apple, pear and dogwood) in my yard. Some are thriving. Others are not. I have to put more of myself into the starts that are lagging. I have to wait for the sunshine and the rain. I have to fertilize and protect.
These truths, I've learned, apply to much of life. God doesn't give us what we want on our time - neither because we want it, nor because we want it now. If a tree takes five years to bear fruit, why should we expect God's work in human life to be accomplished on a faster pace? After all, human beings are far more complex than peach trees. We have emotions, relationships, self-made and complicated problems.
And yet, God's still working on you and me. God's work requires waiting, tending, nurturing and pruning on our part. We can't rush God.
So, if you have a big challenge ahead of you or a large obstacle or roadblock with which you are navigating, plant a peach tree. Wait. And see where faith can take you.
Todd Outcult serves as senior pastor of Calvary United Methodist Church in Brownsburg, Ind.
Last updated on 25 Apr 2008