Pruning can seem to be brutal. Pruning cuts off dead branches and trims back living branches that could become more productive. I lived near the beautiful Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia, Canada. This valley, inland from the Atlantic Coast, is known for its fruit-bearing trees, especially apples of many varieties. In recent years there have also been established vineyards for the production of grapes. Springtime brings a profusion of apple blossoms. Each year there is hosted the local celebration called the Apple Blossom Festival. Later, as the fall season arrives, the trees are laden with fruit. Harvest time is a rewarding time!
Could it be that, with time and a different perspective, we come to realize that the intent of God is that we become more productive (fruitful) than we have ever been?
God is the great pruner, the Ultimate gardener. The classic biblical passage written by John the Apostle (former son in his father’s fishing business) records the words of Jesus, “I am the grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that does not produce fruit, and He prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.” There are times in our lives when God allows something or someone to be taken away. These losses at first appear to be senseless – grief and confusion often follow. Could it be that, with time and a different perspective, we come to realize that the intent of God is that we become more productive (fruitful) than we have ever been? That which has been pruned away is meant to result in newness and greater opportunity. Yes, pruning can seem to be brutal – yet without pruning the fragrance of blossoms and the harvest of fruit is, at best, limited. “When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.”