This period of isolation and true confinement results in still another season of pruning for me. Jesus made it clear that our path is to become better fruit producers – and the less of me there is, the more of Him will show in my life.
Except in truly large crowds, I never meet a stranger. Given the opportunity, I am that annoying person in the elevator who strikes up a conversation – not because I want to talk about myself, but because I am genuinely interested in anyone who crosses my path. I would rather talk with someone about their life and life circumstances than sit quietly alone. When I was a newspaper reporter in my 20s, I learned how to ask questions that require more than a yes or no in response. Since I became a believer, God’s interest in individuals accentuated my Celtic gift of gab. Even introverts find it difficult to not talk with me.
And now, in this season of distancing, I find it difficult to engage others as I once did regularly. Another season of being pruned ensues.
But this season is still part of the preparation for what I am certain is to come: God’s promise of fulfilling relationships with family and friends will be played out in my life in new ways. I believe the online connections through software will be part of that fulfillment. The first new small group meetings at my new church are online. I know connections there will be a blessing to us all.
I got to wish my 4-year-old grandson a happy birthday via technology this week. He got to show me all his wonderful new dinosaurs. His 3-month-old brother heard Grandma Peg’s voice and saw her face on the same video chat. I haven’t gotten to hold him yet since I can’t go to Calgary right now, but with regular interaction, hopefully he’ll recognize me when I see him for the first time in person.
There is also the promise of a very special relationship soon to be initiated. It will come in His time, I am certain, as He who began a work will be faithful to complete it.
Older connections seem to be fading, however, and as much as I long to remain with those people, pruning is in progress. I believe the love does not die, but the regular input in my life is fading. It will make me even more excited to launch into what is coming soon. Jesus promised:
John 15:2b …He cleanses and repeatedly prunes every branch that continues to bear fruit, to make it bear more and richer and more excellent fruit. Amplified Bible, Classic Edition (AMPC) Copyright © 1954, 1958, 1962, 1964, 1965, 1987 by The Lockman Foundation
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