Enduring Tree in the backyard

There is a large tree in the backyard of my house. The branches extended over to the neighbouring house, requiring half of them to be cut off. Nonetheless, they still remain sizeable, casting refreshing shade during the summer.
From late autumn to winter the leaves fall and accumulate, resembling snow upon the grass. The process of clearing them becomes a protracted and wearisome routine that persists for months.
For winter, the tree stands there with only bare branches as if it is dead.  And when the weather gets warmer, closer to spring, green leaves creep up from the branches again. Soon the tree becomes plentiful with leaves, as if it’s saying, “I’m back” or “I’m alive”. So the tree continues to grow.
Married for twenty-five years, I am the mother of three grown children.  I have lived as a minister’s wife without big upheavals in my life. Presently, I have stepped into the role of a minister myself, in response to God’s calling.  These days, I find myself rediscovering lives intricacies, human interactions, and the world’s values. Concurrently, I am immersed in the embrace of God’s grace, purpose, and designs that are being poured into the mould of my life's circumstances. Within this framework, I contemplate the art of attuning to God’s voice, embodying His values, and entering His Kingdom by the exercise of my own free will. Undoubtedly, I am experiencing substantial growth in my mid-fifties.
I clearly sense that I am undergoing training and refinement for the Lord’s work. Frequently, matters do not unfold as anticipated, and it seems as if nothing is happening, much like the enduring tree in my backyard during winter. Nevertheless, even during those moments God remains at work.  In truth, there has never been a time when He has ceased to be my God. 
Where are you in your life journey? As hard as we work for our lives God labours for us with His zeal. God wants to accomplish His plan for us, taking our hands and leading us. Respond to His invitation. Let Him grow you into what He wants you to be. When it comes to growing up, age holds no constraints. All praise be to God.