Faith Reflections by Doreen Tang
The durian, often called the King of Fruits, is famous for its unique taste. You can hear others describe it but can only fully comprehend when you experience it yourself. Faith is much the same. We can learn about God through others, but His love and faithfulness become real when we experience Him personally.
A durian tree also teaches us an important lesson about fruitfulness. Some varieties take up to 15 years before producing fruit. During those years, the farmer cannot force growth. Instead, they focus on creating the right conditions through good soil, nourishment, water and care.
Our spiritual lives work in a similar way. We cannot manufacture the fruit of the Spirit through our effort alone. Our role is to remain connected to Christ through prayer, Scripture, obedience and trust. Jesus teaches that when we abide in Him, He makes us fruitful.
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” (John 15:5)
As church administrators and treasurers, it is easy to focus on tasks, deadlines and responsibilities. Yet our greatest contribution to God’s work comes not simply from getting things done, but from abiding in Christ. When we remain connected to Him, He produces the fruit that honours Him and blesses others.
Just as the farmer faithfully tends a tree long before its fruit can be seen, we are called to faithfully invest in God’s work today, trusting Him with what that investment will produce in the years to come. Our vision of 500 flourishing churches making disciples and transforming Victoria in the next 50 years is an opportunity to invest in something bigger than ourselves; a legacy of flourishing that can bless generations to come.
Doreen Tang
E: doreen.tang@buv.com.au
M: 0413 136 118
W: Give & Partner – Baptist Union of Victoria
P.S. Yes, I am Malaysian and the durian is close to my heart. Some say it smells terrible, but I prefer to think of it as looking beyond first impressions.