Harvest

There’s something about the fall that brings about a sense of deeper purpose. I live in an area where there’s lots of harvesting whether it’s corn or alfalfa or wheat.

It’s a time of moving forward. It’s a time for the farmers to see the fruit of their labor in the production of those crops: corn, alfalfa, wheat, and even sugar beets. These crops are needed for so many different things. They are needed for sustaining life on the food chain.

The Lord created our earth, its crops in the beginning and forever. Our God provides us with what we need for life. Our God provides people with the capacity to share their gifts in farming and ranching for the benefit of His people.

Luke 10 remind us, the harvest is great, and the workers are few.

Luke 10:2 NLT
These were his instructions to them: “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.

This message is true of farmers/ranchers and also, of those who share the message of love and Jesus with others. It is because of our love for Jesus that we share not in judgment but because we are called by God to love like Him.

Sometimes, I find myself on a two lane country road, slowly following a huge tractor, harvest truck or other farming heavy equipment. I am learning not to fuss about the delay in my journey. It gives me a moment to pause and consider the work of a farmer/ rancher raising livestock. It’s hard work, lots of time committed.

The next time you’re on a farming two lane road and wanting to pass a farmer and a tractor or a huge truck that’s bringing crops to be weighed for use give those guys a smile and be patient.

We also have to remember the importance of guarding ourselves from the stuff we value. The simplicity of farming and ranching cannot be under estimated.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 AMP
Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to appreciate those who diligently work among you [recognize, acknowledge, and respect your leaders], who are in charge over you in the Lord and who give you instruction, [13] and [we ask that you appreciate them and] hold them in the highest esteem in love because of their work [on your behalf]. Live in peace with one another.

A farmer and ranchers work blesses all of us. Thank you God for your provision and for them.