On Pruning

The last bouquet before the roses are pruned.


{Belinda's Dream, Angel Face, Rouge Royale}

Every January I wield my pruners with some trepidation. I know I am supposed to prune my roses once a year in order for them to flourish, but it is not an easy task, especially when they are still blooming. I remind myself of the paradox that cutting back canes allows the bush to grow deeper and stronger roots. This translates into healthier plants and beautiful, more abundant blossoms a few months later.

Pruning is done by faith.

So it is with my life. I cannot do it all. I need to forego The Good to choose The Best. Sometimes it takes cutting back unfruitful areas of my life, like the dead canes that must go. The harder task is to cut back the fruitful areas. Areas that seem good, right and profitable. The canes that are still blooming.

But if the Master Gardener says, "Prune," it is time to cut back. I am filled with hope because it means He wants me to grow deeper, healthier roots. He sees the coming abundance. He promises beauty. He is wise, and He is good.

"I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit." John 15:1, 2