Partnership with God

November 16, 2007

By Paul Veliquette

Each day the green stocks of the corn stretched upward as if to grab hold of the very sun. It was just a few months ago the farmer cleared the fields, prepared the soil, and plunged the seed into the rich brown earth. To hold the seed in one’s hand it would appear to be a bit of lifeless and inert organic material. The farmer knew better.

Why? He had seen similar seed spring to life. It was an act of faith on his part to believe it would happen again and again each year. Why else would he go to the labor and expense to prepare, plant, cultivate, water, and spray for weeds and pests? He knew if he were diligent, it would happen again.

The stalks soon reached a mature height. The tassels spread out their flowers and fertilized the ears. The ears grew imperceptibly until full grown and ready for harvest. It was the moment the farmer had labored for so long. All of the effort saw its reward in the harvest.

Harvest is the time of rejoicing, celebrating and knowing the cost is worth it all. The amazing truth is a farmer can do none of this by himself. Without the creative power God places in the seed, the warmth of the sun He created, and the nourishment of the water He provides, there would be no harvest. The farmer does his part and God does His part. I would lean toward believing there are no atheist farmers.

Jesus tells a wonderful parable about a farmer in Matthew 13:1-23. We, the church are portrayed as sowers. We spread the seed, the good news, the gospel. We, like the farmer, tenderly and with diligence prepare the soil of someone’s soul, plant the seed, then water, watch, pray and care for the fields. God does His part by sending His Holy Spirit into the person’s life to connect what we do and say with His own presence.

Harvest comes, that moment when the time is right, the stock is fully ripe and that person makes the ultimate decision of life, to be a follower of Christ. The Bible says there is great rejoicing in heaven when just one person makes that decision. We join in that heavenly party, lending our joy and excitement to the moment.

It all happens because of the divine partnership you and I have with Jesus. When I do my part, He will do His part. Together we enjoy the fruit of the harvest — eternally rescued souls.

Paul Veliquette is pastor of Windsor (Colo.) Assembly of God.