HOCKEY STICK & DUCT TAPE...

In our front yard, we have five apple trees. A friend planted five seeds and about a year later, he brought them over and helped plant them in our yard.

I wondered if they would ever produce apples.

Beyond pruning them every few years, they have grown naturally, and we’ve had plenty of apples. These apples are a huge blessing because Leigh-Ann makes the best apple crisp in the world…I’m.Not.Joking! 

However, this year we have a problem….

…we have too many apples….

…in fact, the tree branches are literally breaking…a few weeks ago, a large branch broke. So, the boys and I went out to pick the apples, and then I tried to fix it.

I created a makeshift splint with a broken hockey stick and duct tape (I am from Minnesota) and attempted to patch it up. Even with the apples off, it was heavy, so Ian helped hold it up while I wrapped it.

I tried to retain the part that was still alive and bring the broken part back to life … I remembered growing up and helping my dad graft multiple apple varieties together into one tree.

Well…. if you think I’m overly optimistic, you’re right …it’s been about two weeks and the branch is definitely dead.

I think the dead branch is a very accurate picture of our best attempts at human flourishing. When you and I take matters into our own hands, we will eventually find ourselves dried up and worn out.

So, how can we experience human flourishing?

David writes a response in Psalm 37:37-40 and this Sunday we will study human brokenness and flourishing and the choice we’ve been given.

The path toward flourishing takes us to the cross where Jesus came to offer peace, forgiveness, life, hope, health, and contentment.

There is so much more I want to share, I really hope to see you on Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available) or 10:45 am, or you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or Facebook at 10:45 am.

Have a great weekend,
Troy