We planted the Satsuma tree last winter. It was already at fruit-bearing size so we began anxiously nurturing it, hoping for a harvest.

Throughout spring and summer, we watered and fertilized. We picked off bugs and caterpillars and worried over the curling leaves. We guarded each bloom, and we were ecstatic when the first tiny fruits began to appear. We prepared supports for the branches knowing that the fruit could easily become too heavy for the branches of the still small tree.

Day after day, we watched the growth, scaring away squirrels and daring anything to interfere with the fruit on that tree. 

We now have eight – I repeat eight – satsumas that are nearing full size. They should ripen in the next couple of months, and I can’t wait to taste the first one.

Fruit. Anticipated. Longed for. Celebrated.

You know, God is in the fruit-bearing business. He purchased me through the blood of His Son. He waters me with mercy and fertilizes me with grace. He nurtures me with His great love, and He has given me His word so that I can bring forth fruit.

As He works in my life, I wonder if He eagerly inspects – just like I have inspected that Satsuma tree over and over again – looking for fruit that will bring Him pleasure and glory.

I believe He does, and I want to make Him proud.

For the hope which is laid up for you in Heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it does also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth:  Colossians 1:5-6

That you might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:10

And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful. Titus 3:14

He also that received seed among the thorns is he that hears the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful. Matthew 13:2