It took quite some effort. First to measure and mark out the bed. Then to apply a liberal dose of gypsum and Neutrog followed by several wheelbarrows of cow manure and topsoil. Next came the rotary hoe.  Then I let the new bed rest till the 10 new roses arrived. Finally they arrived and one by one they were planted 1 metre apart around the curved bed. Each rose has it’s own wire cage for protection from roos and rabbits. A drip watering system was laid down and the whole lot thoroughly mulched. Finally the first new buds are emerging in the new growth. Exciting times as they flower over the next month!
To see them bloom makes the effort all worthwhile. With regular care there’s no reason they should not outlive me! It’s sort of a parallel story to the story of St Paul bring the Gospel to the people of Thessalonica. It took planning, travel, effort, proclamation and prayer. Roses don’t plant themselves. The Gospel is planted with care and loving effort at the prompting of the Lord.
Thank God for those people of faith who did the consistent hard yards to nurture the Gospel in you. Thank God for the opportunities the Lord gives for you to plant the Gospel in the lives of others. Thank the Lord that He is now at work in you and those with whom you share the Good News of Jesus.