Planting a vineyard is an investment.
When we planted our vineyard, the first goal was to learn vineyard management. We took a class though the extension office in our state. Each state has an agriculturally based college that teaches and specialized in all things agricultural specific to that state and it’s needs.
The class was a time investment. Eight classes in eight months. One of the first items on the agenda was the cost of planting, establishing and sustaining a vineyard. The primary investment included plants, irrigation, labor, water cost and source and more.
Time investment was crucial as well. Vineyards are a labor intensive crop. And the return on the investment can take several years. A grapevine takes lots of tender loving care. Little wonder God chose a vineyard is to represent Israel, the church and Christians.
God’s Labor of Love
We are his labor of love. His investment costly, was his son, Jesus. Born of a miraculous virgin birth. Lived on earth as a divine human. Then his earthly ministry draws men and changes lives for all who believe. Followed by a cruel death on the cross to save each earthly soul from eternal damnation.
The eternal investment was Christ’s life for you and I. An eternal investment in humanity. He considered us worthy to suffer excruciating pain and death to bear our sins on the cross. Yes, to save us from our sin and death.
And through grace the invitation to abide remains for each individual on earth.
An invitation to abide in everlasting love. A friend so loving and kind that laid down his life for humanity. And the promise to ask what we will in his name, bearing lasting fruit to his glory. The parting command to love one another. Together in the vineyard in love through God’s grace.
Amen.
Scripture for Today
“This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. 15 I no longer call you slaves, because a master doesn’t confide in his slaves. Now you are my friends, since I have told you everything the Father told me. You didn’t choose me. I chose you. I appointed you to go and produce lasting fruit, so that the Father will give you whatever you ask for, using my name. This is my command: Love each other” (John 15:12-17 NLT).
Get my memoir: Before You Depart: God’s Touch before Eternity
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