I recently visited Descanso Gardens in La Canada, California. This time of year is especially beautiful. We enjoy the final beautiful result, but it involves generally unseen work to plant, fertilize, pollinate, and maintain these plants to bring forth the crop. 

My visit, and thinking about the work involved, brings to mind our opportunities to spread the Gospel as Jesus taught in the Parable of the Sower. Although bringing someone to faith is in the hands of the Holy Spirit, because we have received the Word sown in us, we live in God’s grace always prepared to share the Gospel with those we meet. We don’t always see the full bloom but can be prepared for the opportunities He puts before us, without worry about the rocky soil or the wind or environment. We simply have the hopeful opportunity to Joyfully Proclaim Christ.

But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you (1 Peter 3:15a).

Nila Rodriguez
LWML Pacific Southwest District President