See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!

1 John 3:1

I cannot wait to see Big Roy every morning when I wake up. He brings me so much pleasure and joy. He thrills me.

Lest I confuse you, no, my husband’s name is not Roy. Big Roy lives in my small garden outside my bedroom window. Big Roy is a tomato plant. His stature, seven inches tall when I planted him now reaches five feet a few short months later. 

I have never seen a tomato plant that big. Big green tomatoes hang from his limbs while pretty yellow buds shine waiting to bring even more. I love gazing upon him every day. I cannot wait to eat those tomatoes when they become ripe.

Did you know that God takes even more pleasure in us than I do in Big Roy? He loves looking at us. He loves being our Father. He adores growing us, pruning us, providing us with all the “nutrients” to become who He wants us to be.  

He encourages us to grow and bear fruit so His light can spread to those around us. He wants us to give His joy to others. He draws others to Himself through us.

What part do we play in this process? We simply grow in the soil where He planted us and welcome His careful nurturing. Delight in Him as He lavishes His love on us. Be joyful in Him and share that joy with His world.

I call Big Roy mine. He stands proud and tall in my garden.

God calls us His when we accept His love, forgiveness, and redemption. He calls us his children. And that is what we are! 

Thank you, Lord, for allowing us to be Yours. Thank you for lavishing Your Love on us!

Susan P.