Second Fruits

Matthew 7:17-20
 
The tree was watered,
It felt the sun,
Its roots grew strong--
A life begun.
 
When fruit appeared,
The tree stood tall,
A sign of health
To one and all.
 
But then the storms
Of life unfurled--
First drought, then rain,
Then winds that swirled.
 
For a season
No fruit was seen,
Withered and brown,
Not healthy green.
 
But underground
Were roots held fast
By care and love
From seasons past.
 
And once again
The sun came down
To shine upon
The fertile ground.
 
New fruit was seen,
Brighter and sweet,
Having survived
Seeming defeat.