Caring for Plants and People

Love is patient, love is kind, it is not envious. Love does not brag, it is not puffed up. It is not rude, it is not self-serving, it is not easily angered or resentful. It is not glad about injustice, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NET)

Orchids, spider plants, succulents, peace lilies, basil… fill areas of my patio. Plant stands hold several varieties. Large pots contain foliage reaching towards the ceiling. Smaller ones have a variety of herbs. Christmas cactus wait for winter to sprout blooms from each pointed leaf. Aloe fan out from clay pots. 

            My attempts to provide the right water, sunlight and nutrients often fall short. A few hardy specimens need a small amount of water and aren’t picky about sunlight. 

            Once a week, orchids soak for several minutes in a tub. Then they drip before returning to their containers. 

            Aloe require an occasional drink. Herbs dry quickly so need small but frequent waterings. 

            Ceramic flowerpots with a mixture of foliage pose a problem. Some of the plants wilt while the rest seem fine. Do I water for the wilted ones or would that be too much for the more hardy ones?  

            I enjoy my assortment of greenery but caring for them takes time and discernment of what they need. Sometimes the results are not the best. 

            A wide assortment of friends and family members, require time and discernment for how to nurture and love too.  

            A few independent ones only need occasional encouragement to thrive. Most require a more regular schedule of care. However, a smaller number demand constant affirmation and guidance. 

            Because we interact with others, we need to realize every person is a unique creation.  God designed different temperaments, gifts, and abilities. 

            We can’t expect everyone to be just like us or the way we would like them to be. 

            But we can love, guide and care for them like Jesus. Help them live according to God’s will and not ours. 

Heavenly Father, how amazing that you have created distinctive individuals. Show us how to bring out the best in each person as we use our own gifts and talents.

Amen