From Wild to Privileged

Romans 11:17-18 ESV

…you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you.

Born with surname, Savage, I lived to be wild. Steppenwolf’s song resonated within my lifestyle, “Born to Be Wild.” Being wild left me wanting more. I came out empty every time. A wild olive tree can not bear tasty fruit; it is sour and good for nothing.

I wanted to be nourished, loved and cared for. I wanted to be wanted. I took a taste of the cultivated olive tree with savory fruit. But then I became afraid. I thought, “How can Jesus love me after all I’ve done? How can I be a part of these people who probably have never done anything wrong?” I ran away from HIM. I went back to the only love I had ever known—ever so temporary and void. Lacking.

I ran until this broken off branch started to wither. Lying there wasting away. God is gracious! My name, Shonda, means God is gracious. By God’s loving grace, He picked up this broken and battered branch. He grafted me into the Root, who is Christ. Now I am nourished, loved, accepted and flourishing. I am privileged to share in blessing of Abraham.

Galatians 3:14 ESV

so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.

“The church of God is an olive-tree, flourishing and fruitful as an olive, the fruit useful for the honour both of God and man.” ~~Matthew Henry’s Commentary

Be grafted into the Root. The Root, Christ Jesus, supports and nourishes the branches. We who are in Christ are privileged to be called as beautiful as an olive tree! (Hosea 14:6)

Engrafted by His Grace--