Dig Around and Fertilize

[S] Luke 13:8-9 --
8 And he answered and said to him, `Let it alone, sir, for this year too, until I dig around it and put in fertilizer;9 and if it bears fruit next year, fine; but if not, cut it down.'"

[O] The vineyard owner was fed up with not finding any fruit from this fig tree that's been barren for three years and wanted to cut down the tree.  But the vineyard-keeper persuaded the owner to let it grow for the rest of this year and to wait next year's harvest time and see if it'll bear fruits; if not, then he will cut it down.  The ultimatum still existed but he was willing to use the time he requested to nurture and fertilize through his caring in order for this tree to bear delicious and sweet figs the following year.  Our days are numbered in God's timeline and the judgment day is unavoidable, however God's grace if extended to the last minute for us to bear the spiritual fruits He designed for me to bear.

[A] I don't know what is but the vineyard-keeper's heart touched me as I read "until I dig around it and put in fertilizer" because that is not a simple task.  It may have been his commitment to care so that tree won't perish too soon. I gotta have the same mindset when it comes to participating in His ministry -- beyond and above our own limitations, having the "until I dig around it and put in fertilizer" mentality towards those He had entrusted under my care.

[P] Dear God, I'm just amazed how You chose to work through me who is so inadequate.  May my heart soak up this vineyard-keeper's heart which is the heart of Jesus Christ our Lord toward me.  In Jesus' name.  Amen.