How does your garden grow?


Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark. –Rabindranath Tagore


After a long, dark, challenging winter, spring is finally arriving on the North Coast, undeterred by the pandemic. The “early bird” crocuses and daffodils are giving way to irises and azaleas. Birdsong fills the morning air as singles become couples, and couples become families. The whole of Creation is in such a flurry of growth and activity, we might easily forget that it’s only been a few short months since the earth was quiet and still; at times, it seemed as though the darkness had won. (Sometimes, it still does.)

It can feel that way in our spiritual lives, as well. Some days the weight of sadness or loss can seem almost unbearable. Try as we might, it may be nearly impossible to discern any light at all, or feel the loving gaze of the Almighty.

But the light is there. God is there. And when the days once again begin to grow longer and brighter, one minute at a time, we can look back and realize that just as those crocus bulbs use winter’s darkness as a time to rest and gather strength, so, too, do our times of seeming darkness and isolation become periods when God is quietly at work in our lives. Even through anger or frustration, through questioning and denial, God is there, continually leading and forming us into the people we are created to become. God works in darkness, as well as in light.

Trust and know that God is there, molding, shaping—preparing.


Monday As you begin a new week, take time to go outside, close your eyes and listen. Breathe in the sounds and smells of this new season and give thanks. Psalm 1:1-3

Tuesday Consider planting a favorite herb (or two) in a window-sized pot. If you already grow herbs, add one to the garden this year.  Genesis 2:15-17

Wednesday As weather gets warmer, there will be more people visibly homeless. Pray for those children of the Most High, seen and unseen, with no place to lay their heads at night. Proverbs 18:10

Thursday Do you know someone who is struggling through a dark period in their life? Reach out to them in prayer, with a visit or note. You may be the light shining in the darkness. 1 John 1:5-7

Friday When was the last time you sat outside and watched the stars come out? As the Full Moon begins to wane, pull up a chair and enjoy the show. Sit in quiet and give thanks. 2 Corinthians 4:6

Saturday As you pray for yourself today, examine your heart. Meditate on a time when you have experienced growth in the darkness. Job 42:2-3

Sunday Celebrate this different (online) worship experience and give thanks for those who lead worship today. Ephesians 3:17-21

When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don’t throw away the ticket and jump off. 
 You sit still and trust the engineer. –Corrie Ten Boom

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