Dear Friends,

Recently I've been prayer walking in our local country park, its great to spend time with God first thing in the morning, in the fresh air, (Also I need the exercise after the excess of Christmas!). Its great to be close to nature and as Solomon said to "consider the lilies…"

My walk usually follows the stream that runs through the park.

In January, I was struck by the dormancy of the trees planted along the stream, with the winter leaves gone they look completely dead, I mean who would believe that those dead looking trees could ever bear anything again, never mind leaves, flowers or fruit. Each morning as I walk I examine the trees for signs of life. Ever tried watching a tree grow? If I didn't know better I would give up on all those trees!

Yet as January moves into March I start to see signs of life, unbelievable! Those dead looking trees by the water are starting to put out little buds and some the buds are opening up into blossoms. A miracle of rebirth before my eyes!

Sometimes my life seems a bit like those trees, often I've prayed,  Lord when will I see the fruit that you promised? I'm staring at this tree, working, pushing and nothing seems to be happening!

Then I hear His gentle reply,

My dear child like this tree, you don't have to try, to push, or force to make your self grow, just remain in me, Turn up each morning and walk with me, talk with me, seek me and find me. Listen carefully and you will hear me speak, a whisper through the trees, the song of a bird, a smile from a passing walker. As you open my Word to the sky, I pour my truth into your heart. Look to the sky for signs of my faithfulness, the world keeps turning, the sun rises each morning, the clouds roll away to reveal the blue sky, sometimes a rainbow, Just to let you know, how much I love you … Just stay close to me, and hold my hand, eventually you'll understand, its not about you our your efforts (although I'm pleased with all you do) … Its about my character of love and faithfulness, I always keep my promises...

So remain in me and soon you'll know, like these trees planted by the water, springtime buds will blossom and grow, there will be new leaves and flowers and guess what else… you will bear fruit in season and everything you do will prosper!"  (Adapted from Psalm 1) 

P.S I Love You,   J. C formally of Nazareth.

So do keep enjoying your relationship, with Jesus, the fruit will soon be evident!

I do hope that we will see you at Spring Harvest in Skegness and or Mine head, I'm really looking forward to the time of fellowship and worship and we will be displaying some of our latest ' fruits'!.

Love and blessings in Jesus,