God’s redeeming love transforms our lives.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God,
to those who are called according to His purpose.
For those whom He foreknew He also predestined
to be become conformed into the image of His Son . . .“
Romans 8:28-29

My family saves kitchen scraps. Bruised, inedible pieces of produce, spent coffee grounds and grains, and broken eggshells are diligently collected and taken to my compost pile by the chicken coop. We even add the chicken litter (read poop and pine shavings) from the aforementioned coop to the mix. Over time, this mound of refuse undergoes a transformation within its core that fascinates me. Helpful micro-bacteria are hard at work breaking down the matter, destroying harmful bacteria, and transforming what is left into a rich soil that can then be used to grow my veggie garden. This nutrient dense humus is far better than any store-bought fertilizer and my plants happily soak it up and produce an abundant harvest that feeds my family and friends with organic goodness. This process of redemption delights my heart so much that it secretly pains me to witness someone sending their scraps to the city dump. They see matter destined for rot. I see the start of redemption.

Copyright Douglas P Brauner

We all have not so pretty parts of our lives; sins, struggles, suffering. Sometimes all we see is waste only fit for hiding, quick-fixing or forgetting. Yet, the Gardner of our souls has a heart that delights in redemption. Every bit of our stories He tenderly uses for the work of transformation into the likeness of His Son. From the humble humus made from our muck He grows the fruit of the Spirit to strengthen us and to nourish those around us with the hope of the Gospel.

Though the process of redemption may feel slow and not observable as the Spirit works death and resurrection on a molecular level in the depths of our souls, you can rest assured that the Gardener will use all things for His glory. It is a deep work that cannot be rushed and we are not promised that we will be able to see the fruit ourselves this side of heaven, but He has promised there will be fruit. So be encouraged and trust His process. He is doing a good work.