The Gardener
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The gardener poked his tools in his gardening apron, slipped on his gloves and walked toward the beautiful patch of tilled up earth. Oh what a beautiful sight to behold--his precious plants all doing what they were to do. Each one lifting hands high toward the rain and the sun, drinking in whatever the day brought forth. Each one trusting without a question about why, or where, or when. Yes, it was a beautiful garden.
He stopped, bent down and inspected each plant carefully, touching each one gently as he passed. Occasionally he would reach into his gardening apron and remove a pair of pruning shears. As he supported the plant with his left hand, he carefully clipped off branches that were not growing well and not producing good fruit. He made each cut thoughtfully and delicately so that the plant would not suffer unnecessary shock or damage. Naturally, he knew every plant’s need. However, he had to force the plant to produce to its best ability.
Every branch which the gardener leaves on the plant is a branch which will bear much fruit. Every branch which the gardener prunes will also bear much fruit. All plants in his garden are productive; none are weak and dying. Because of his touch, every plant is vigorous as it matures.
These wonderful plants do not have to do anything but submit to the work of this master's hands to be good fruit bearers. They do not have to strain to grow well; they do not have to worry about nourishment. The gardener's care alone causes the plants to flourish. The plant never takes the credit away from its master.
How does this gardener feel about his plants? Why, he would absolutely give his life for them. Rain or shine he is always in that garden speaking tenderly to his plants, gently pruning, carefully transplanting. His is a prize winning plot of land because of his dedication to it, and each plant can proudly say that it was chosen by this master for a special purpose--to bear much fruit. The whole world will see the beauty of that fruit as the gardener releases plants and chooses others.
Come visit sometime. The gardener will be glad to tell you about his prizewinners if you ask.
