Has the fact that I was born and have lived the life I have made even the slightest bit of difference? (Yes, I do tend to ask these kinds of questions… often). And, if there is a bit of difference that I have walked on this earth, then has the difference been of any positive affect… to anyone? I’m not seeking affirmation of me nor kind but slightly meaningless comments unless they are accompanied by some concrete facts.
Part of my wondering is based in the words of Jesus in John 15 (NKJV):
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine dresser. Every branch
in me that bears not fruit He takes away, and every branch that
fears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (1)
…Abide in me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of
itself, except it abides in the vine, o more can you, except you
abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He that abides
in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit; for without
Me you can do nothing.” (4-5)
When I take the time to look at my fruit, not certain that my evidence shows the extent of the input. In my mind, the Lord has shared so much with me and has enriched my life beyond measure.
Granted, I am the last person who has an objective ‘analysis’ of who I am and what I’ve done (as are you about you). Even with this as a conscious realization, still I have to question myself. Problem is that I fall far short in my eyes. I am anything but complacent or confident. Simultaneously, I have no intention of ‘resting on any laurels’ that may exist. There is no such thing as ‘having made it’ or time for a vacation.
I firmly believe we all are put on earth for a reason – we are not a mistake nor is the time of our life out of sync. We are where we are and as the old saying goes: ‘bloom where you are planted’. The bottom line truly is our focus: where our eyes are – on our wants or on the Lord’s direction; whether we have allowed the Lord full access to our lives; and a variety of like analyzes. We have the responsibility and privilege to become an active participant in the Great Commission to which we all are called:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19, ESV)
Whatever our particular gifting is, the point is making disciples of those around us by using the gifts and talents the Lord has placed in us. This then becomes my definitional foundation to determine if I am fruitful. And… to continue supplying my part (2Corinthians 9:12)
