GNARLED BRANCHES clawed at the bleak California sky as I walked through our barren orchard last week—a vivid reminder of Jesus’ words: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful” (John 15:1-2).

Looking at those twisted trees, I thought about how God prunes the fruitless parts of my life to produce more fruit through me. Though sanctification is a lifelong process, I sensed His more recent pruning when I got remarried! It felt like stepping into an adventure, much like C.S. Lewis’s cozy Hobbit, who was called to something greater. Despite doubts about age, distance, and past grief, friends encouraged me to take this leap of faith. Overwhelmed, I knelt and cast my cares on Him, recalling Don Moen’s song: “God will make a way where there seems to be no way.” I then clung to Proverbs 3:5-6, trusting that in acknowledging Him, He would direct my path. Soon after, we married, and I moved to Don’s peach farm in Reedley, California.

Here I am—still an idealist with high expectations—learning the painful yet necessary art of pruning. Like any relationship, marriage brings challenges that can make us cling to old, unproductive ways. When we remarried, we hadn’t realized how time could weaken us, turning unrealistic hopes into disappointment. Pruning meant letting go of familiar ideals, and I struggled with insecurities, especially as a “second wife.” Yet, God’s gentle voice reassured me, “It will take a very secure woman to do what you are doing.” At that moment, I found comfort in Hebrews 12:4- 11, knowing His discipline is a sign of love.

I had imagined a life like that of my retired friends on Facebook, but my new husband—now in his fifty-third year of teaching Bible at Immanuel High School—continues to find joy in his calling. His passion and commitment remind me daily that God is wise, powerful, and loving. We are building a life filled with shared hopes, struggles, and laughter (even if we sometimes mishear the punchlines). We support each other through aches, everyday disappointments, and the occasional patch of selfishness, yet we choose to follow God’s revealed path (Psalm 119:1-8 MSG).

As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.” Just as last August, the orchard was lush with foliage and sweet, ripe peaches; new blossoms will soon burst through the gnarled branches. I can almost smell the blossoms’ fragrance and taste their fruit’s sweetness. As we wait on the Lord, our lives will grow fruitful. Be encouraged—the best is yet to come!