My nearby neighbor’s lovely garden grew into a mess. Her once beautiful trees and plants became overgrown, no longer producing blooms and fruits like they once did.

This overlooked garden reminds me daily of what Jesus said: “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you” (John 15:1-3).

We, followers of Jesus Christ, sometimes forget the beauty of God’s grace and forgiveness. We might become overgrown with weeds of worries and choked by thorns of troubles when we keep trying to live like the world. Sometimes we even willingly lay ourselves down in rocky patches after hardship comes our way, losing our joy. Often, unhealthy parts of our lives must be ultimately thrown away and pruned like dead branches.

God’s plan to bring forth new life in us because Jesus lives within us. He wants us to bear much fruit as the Holy Spirit helps grow our character.

God already took us out of the wasteland and replanted us in good soil, so there is no reason not to believe what He says: Beauty can sprout again in us! You and I will be transformed into spectacular landscapes, showcasing God’s glory in hopeful ways!

When we allow God to water us with His Word, we will see Him cultivate beauty in our lives.

*For deeper reflection, listen to John 15 today.