What are you cultivating?

I have one cool plant in my yard – a lilac bush planted by a previous owner. Each spring, fragrant pale purple flowers bloom, filling the air with their beautiful scent.

I adore this plant. 

For the past few years, it has faithfully blossomed. I’ve clipped blooms for vases around my house and shared them with others. The flowers and their fresh scent brighten any space, and I look forward to them every spring.

This week, I finally stopped and really looked at it. 

I’ve neglected it.

Overgrown and lacking some TLC, it needs care.

Why have I neglected something that brings me so much joy?

It’s a small thing, but I know that when I cultivate something I care about, it becomes a balm to my soul. And that joy spills over into my life, blessing my relationships.

Are you neglecting something that brings you joy?

Maybe it’s creating – painting, gardening, baking. Maybe it’s spending time in nature, or with someone you love. Maybe it’s exercising your body or stretching your mind.

Like Paul encouraged Timothy: “Do not neglect your gift.” (1 Timothy 4:14)

I’m committing to tending my lilac bush, and I encourage you to do the same with whatever brings you joy.

Cultivate it. Let it grow. Let it bless others.

Because it will.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart,

as working for the Lord.

Colossians 3:23 NIV

Thoughts to Ponder:

• What is one life-giving thing you’ve been neglecting?
• How might intentionally cultivating that “small” joy impact your relationship with God and with others?