Several years ago I purchased some iris bulbs from a bulb catalog. They were not cheap, but I fell in love with the photos of stunning colors and enormous blooms. Plus, irises are one of my favorites, due to my grandmother’s purple ones growing by the side of her back door, which I thought smelled like grape candy when I was five (was that a great run-on sentence or what?).
I planted the bulbs according to the detailed, tedious instructions. I waited impatiently for them to pop up, thrilling everyone for miles with their circus hues and angelic scent (I don’t really know what an angel smells like; it just sounds yummy!).
The first year, only one came up. Poopers (that’s my swear word)! I was disappointed, bummed and mad. I spent money on those beggars! I did everything they told me to do. I sweated on my knees, got dirt under my fingernails, and only ONE lousy flower bloomed? I want my money back!
The following year, two or three came up. I think two. But, I had planted five, each a different shade, names like “Breathtaking Buttercream” and “For Lovers Only Lavender.” (Hey, maybe I should apply for a job naming flowers! Do you think it pays well?)
Now we are into our third year. I had almost forgotten about my lovely irises when a few days ago, my husband and I started on a walk. From the corner of my eye I spotted a zing of purple. Tiptoeing closer, we found not only a brilliant purple striped with white, but the brightest yellow, the softest mauve, etc. The iris parade had arrived! AT LAST!!! Glory to God!
And it only took three years…
You know what I’m going to say next, and I’m preaching to me as well as you. Worthy goals take time.
How many times have I whimpered, “I just want this book to be published?! I don’t want to have to edit, revise, query, propose, convene (go to a convention), edit and revise some more. I just want to have a book!” But all the whining in the Sahara Desert has done me no good. I still need time (and prayer) for my ‘bulbs’ to turn into flowers, blessing and nourishing the souls of those whom God sends their way.
How long since you “planted?” Are you seeing some beauty, or are you still waiting? Share with us, and we’ll pray that your book or career will come to full bloom soon. And, that God, your audience of one, will give you grace to be joyful in the waiting.
