Baptism Sunday [Devo]

Baptism Sunday
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I recently inherited my mother’s collection of house plants. Near the end of her battle with cancer, many of these plants were neglected and needed some attention. So after receiving them, I got to work moving them into new pots, separating those that were too crowded and removing old growth. It was therapeutic for me to watch the reactions of these repotted seedlings as they adapted to their new environments. Some perked up almost overnight, seeming to accept the TLC provided, and spread their leaves with joy. Others took some time to stabilize, needing some adjustment to their light, water or fertilizer schedules. Some looked completely wilted, and I was worried that they would never come back. But with extra attention and time, they eventually adapted to this new life.

In discussing this process with another house plant enthusiast, I began to relate to these plants (Perhaps a little too personally?). My life has recently felt like I’ve been uprooted; I feel like I’ve been thrust into a foreign world that doesn’t contain my mother. She was my confidant and best friend, my cheerleader and sounding board, my shopping buddy and fellow adventurer, my partner in crime. But does this change allow for new growth in ways that I didn’t see myself capable of before?

It’s going to take me some time to adapt to these changes. Being pulled out of my previous place of comfort has been painful. I feel like my roots have been damaged and broken, and I’m trying to find a new way to fit into my family and my surroundings. I have been finding encouragement in the Word, and as we read in Romans 12:2:

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”

Will this test help me determine God’s plan for me, moving forward? Jesus gave us the greatest example of adapting to change when He came to Earth as a man. He became flesh, lived among sinners, and sacrificed Himself for us.

In times of turmoil, I would encourage you to turn to Him, to feel His love shine down on you, to allow Him to shower you in peace and wisdom, and to remain rooted in His Word.

“Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”
–Philippians 4:11-12

Author: Michelle Lemley, Nursery Coordinator