These flowers grow from a cactus that is planted in the desert of California. To look at them you would think that this picture was taken at a lush, cool, green garden near the ocean. The image of the green grass and a refreshing fountain is something that we could embrace without too much reluctance. After all it is growing! The truth is that God has seen fit to show us the beauty of a flower that grows and blooms in a barren climate. Why?

There is a familiar saying "Bloom where you are planted." It has to do with contentment and effectiveness as a Christian. It is a call to be satisfied with where ever God has placed you. I have not always been willing to embrace that line but I am willing to allow the principal of fruitfulness to be a continual part of my life choices. It may be difficult to imagine that during those dry and dusty seasons in our lives there can be a sweet and beautiful fragrance growing. This is what God sees every time we pray, believe and act on the truth of His word. Don’t let the challenges and demands of life become an opportunity for discouragement to grow...

Remember the cactus flower; remember who gave it for us to have hope.