Reflections of a Gardener

Last weekend I decided that I better take a look at what had become of my neglected garden. By the third week of September I was pretty much "done" with it. In the weeks prior, I had slowly been pulling stuff out and throwing it in a pile at one end of the garden. I had high hopes of learning some kind of composting technique. Anyway, the only thing that was even left was the carrots. What a shocking sight I had when I finally ventured to the northwest side of our property... Here are a few reflections from my gardening experience...

THE IMPORTANCE OF SOIL

Overall, I was really happy with the success of our garden. Other neighbors warned that they had not had much success in growing a bountiful crop. I spent a lot of time reading and planning. It seemed that the soil/compost was a big variable in the potential success of a garden. And I must say that my organic compost and 10 inches of soil paid off...

I am reminded of how our relationship with God cannot grow with harden hearts, closed ears, and an unwillingness to take time to know God through the Bible. You must invest in the "soil".

THE IMPORTANCE OF A ROOT SYSTEM

One of my shocking sights last weekend was the carrots that I dug up. Obviously from the picture they would not be characterized as a successful aspect of my garden, but rather the alien/halloween version of Veggie Tale carrots! Clearly I did not heed the advice of allowing for an adequate root system.

When we are overscheduled and busy, we don't take the time to notice the needs of others.

IF YOU DON'T TAKE CARE OF SOMETHING PROPERLY...

The second surprising sight was the 329 basil plants that had take over. I had pulled out all the basil because it was finished... or so I thought! Apparently, the flowers at the top drop hundreds of seeds which all took root.

Isn't it so true in life how sin that is not taken care of can root itself and spread like wildfire.

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL CAN COME FROM THE UGLY

Probably the most amazing sight were the 4 lettuce plants that emerged from the pile of "rubbish" I had been throwing at the end of the garden. The lettuce had finished back in June so that area had become the dumping ground for all the dead plants. I guess with the warm Oct. weather several of the plants grew back.

How many times have we been witness to the hand of God in a seemingly dismal situation to grow something beautiful.

I will definitely be back at my garden next spring with a new and improved plan:)