Persevering Through Challenge
(3 Minute Read)
By Heidi Schartner
I have admitted defeat. This battle I have with plant life has lasted for decades and they continue to win… or lose, depending on how you view it. I am sad when I discover their wilted state. I feel badly that I failed.
What makes it worse is that I have friends who brag about their green thumbs. Well, they don’t actually brag, but I go to their homes and see their plants all happy and full of life. Mine are held up by dental floss and chopsticks and have a lifespan of about six months. I don’t intend to overwater… or underwater. Those who know me, say “You can’t kill this one!” but I have proven them wrong (more than once). And what’s worse is that when I tell them, they act shocked. History is indeed repeating itself here, people.
That being said, I have one plant that continues to shock me. Ironically, it was gifted to me when I started children’s ministry close to five years ago. I kind of laughed when I received it because I knew its demise was inevitable. But I was WRONG! It’s still alive and seriously, I have no idea why (I also have no idea what kind of plant it is).
It has long green singular leaves and when the sun hits it just right for just the right amount of time, this glorious red orchid blooms. This thing has been dried out, cut down and almost thrown out but I keep hanging on to it, just to see if I can bring it back one more time.
The challenge of perseverance
I share about this particular plant because it continues to teach me about perseverance. Children’s ministry is always changing - new volunteers, new families, new needs - it is the one area of church life that doesn’t have a lot of continuity. Perhaps that’s a good thing, but it is also challenging.
Whatever you are feeling about your ministry, know this: your perseverance will pay off. Sometimes our work is really, really hard. The book of James tells us that we are blessed when we persevere with our trials. It might not always feel that way, but God works in all circumstances, even when we may feel like we aren’t quite getting it right.
I’ll be a little down if my plant finally decides its given me enough chances. Perhaps you can find me at the Awesome KidMin Conference and ask how its doing. I truly (truly) hope I can say “it is alive and well” and that it continues to teach me about the importance of perseverance.
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12)