The Picardan Moments
I am completely enthralled with the history of a particular grape, the picardan. This white grape, once on the brink of extinction, was brought by a vintner to the soil of his vineyard, English Newsom Cellars, in Lubbock, Texas, and there it met its loamy match now thriving as the largest producer of this grape variety in the world.
Within the last few weeks, I have held my newborn great-niece and snuggled her as she acquainted her precious self with life. Passed the nine-year milestone of the loss of my dad. Reels of memories swam through my mind coupled with the sting of the mourning of time not able to be spent together over my daughter’s lifetime. We hosted a heartfelt dinner at our house celebrating the engagement of an adored friend to her new fiancé. The sweetest story of the Lord’s kind and good provision. I received a phone call from my sister letting me know our aunt had passed away. The aunt we spent summers with growing up who showed us the most vivid example of living out Christ-like hospitality, persevering through difficulty, and never ever passing up a good garage sale for the off chance treasure could be right under your nose. She lived with grit, love, compassion, and everyday elegance.
The picardan moments. Times that slice our hearts like there is no nutrient left in the soil with which to thrive. Yet flourishing awaits.
John 15:4-5, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (ESV)
Our Vine. When void of thriving, we remain connected to His unfailing, continual source of replenishment and strength. One nutrient at a time, one honest plea after another, He renews as we abide.
‘Lord, I trust You, but I feel empty.’
‘Lord, You are sovereign and see the full picture. I don’t get it. Clear my blurred vision.’
‘Lord, I don’t know what to pray or how to even process, but You tell me You are my Helper and are interceding for me on my behalf.’
‘Lord, protect me from selfishly thinking I can do anything on my own strength.’
‘Lord…’
I had to see the vineyard. Walk amongst the soil. Spend time strolling in the company of the vines. Apart from the vine, the branch is destined for death. As am I. But firmly connected, even through adversity, the true Vine provides when we abide.
Heavenly Father, Your promise to be my sustainer is real, alive, and trustworthy. Forgive me when I try to do things on my own strength. Renew and tend. To you be all glory and honor. Amen