Planting gives us insight into who God is

Ihave learned more about plant ing in the last month than I have in my entire life. It is overwhelming that something as simple as nourishment rising from the ground can be so complicated at the same time.

My church, St. John’s United Methodist Church, is exploring and dreaming of starting a garden on our church’s lawn to contribute to the needs of those in the community. Because of this I have sat in many meetings about soil pH levels, irrigation systems, topsoil and composting. I have learned about so many different vegetables and what each one

needs to thrive in each season. I sit in silence and furiously scribble down notes in a state of humility of the knowledge of others and the beauty of creation.

This work of planting has already been good for the soul because scripture reminds us that planting gives us insight into who God is and what God desires for his disciples. Jesus tells that the “Kingdom of God is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in the garden.”

When Jesus looks at those who need to hear the good news of God’s grace, he tells us his disciples that the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. When Jesus meets Mary Magdalene after his resurrection, he meets her in the garden, and she mistakes him for the gardener.

I’ve realized in the last few weeks as we are preparing to break ground on our garden that we are all invited to be gardeners. God is a gardener, planting all of creation and planting each of us. Can you allow yourself today to be rooted down and planted for God’s glory? Can you image what it might look like for God to grow something new within your heart to feed the hungry, reconcile broken relationships, help others know about the God that loves them so much.

Now when I walk on the earth of the church grounds and ground of the earth around my house, I do not just see it as dirt and soil. I see it as an opportunity to plant. Go plant something today, whether it be a vegetable or a new relationship, and know that you are joining in the work of God.