Forced Fruit
I have a tree that isn’t bearing fruit. So I tried some tactics to push it along
Reason
I reasoned with my tree. I used really detailed graphs loaded with facts that would make Ross Perot proud. This didn’t work. My tree had a counter to every fact and piece of evidence I offered. He had done his homework.
Threats
I threatened my tree thinking that a little fear would get it to give me some tasty fruit. I told it all the things I was capable of doing to it. My tree didn’t seem to care, he just shrugged and said; “Do what you will.”
Protest
I put up a blog and rallied a bunch of people who where angry about trees not bearing fruit. We made big signs and banners and even a miniature replica of my tree that we burned. My tree didn’t come any closer to giving me fruit.
I guess I will have to keep watering it and treating it like fruit trees should be treated. When the time is right, who knows?
How have you tried to force your tree to grow?
Your tree story reminded me of an experience we had with a tree. 7 years ago this past Spring, Skip and I lost our first baby. We were devastated. Our church purchased a flowering tree for us to plant in our yard to remember our baby but also to remember the comfort and peace we received from the Holy Spirit. We were told that the tree would not flower for the first couple of years. But lo and behold, that first season it flowered. It was beautiful. It was such a reminder to us that life can come out of death, that no matter what the laws of nature say, my God’s voice speaks louder. I love that.
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"Do what you will." — That sentence bothers me. If the owner and the tree are both willing for the tree to bear fruit…Unless the tree (or the believer) is merely saying the words…
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Vince Reply:
March 2nd, 2009 at 3:36 pm
The post describes me the view from a leadership position. Sometimes we want to 'force' the flock to produce fruit. but they can't be forced.
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I came across your tree photo when I was browsing the web looking for some inspiration for my new design company. I want my logo to be a tree bearing fruit that has deep and sturdy roots. Starting my own business has been a long time coming…I feel like God is nudging me out of the proverbial nest and its a bit scary but,I am ready to produce my fruit ! I loved the photo even though its now exactly what I am looking for, it was inspirational none the less!
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