Here in Minnesota spring is fast approaching. We will reach 59 degrees today and by the end of the week there is a prediction of snow.

Spring makes me think of my gardens. At least my flowers that I put around my townhouse. Now up north, the spring comes in much later, but I have enlarged our rock garden and excited to see how my strawberry plants survived the old winter.

I love the smell of the flowers and the brilliant colors that the plants bring forth. I am sure you that garden and seem to have a green thumb would agree. We have seen some pretty amazing garden displays. Rocks, flowers, water, lights and steppingstones. Your imagination has no limits when it comes to gardening and the supplies we use to create and maintain them.

The first garden ever created was the Garden of Eden. A perfect garden. No weeds, no thorns, no bothersome bugs or animals eating Gods creation. The Garden of Eden, often referred to simply as “Eden,” is a significant location in the biblical narrative, representing the original paradise where God placed the first humans, Adam and Eve. The account of the Garden of Eden is primarily found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 2 and 3.

I want to move away from what happened in the Garden when sin entered the world. Genesis is not the only chapter where the word garden/gardens or gardener is mentioned. The bible references a garden 65 times framing the word as sacred, original vocation for humanity to work and keep. The bible also uses the word garden to symbolize stewardship, spiritual growth and cultivation of God’s kingdom.

In John 15:2 we read of Gods gracious love for us. 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. If God through love is not attending to us, offering hope and mercy we to will die. He teaches us patience and reliance on God.

We do the same with the plants in our gardens. If these are left unattended, they will wither away and die. Our gardens rely on us to nurture and tend to its needs. As we water the roots deep within the dirt our plants reach up to the sun for nourishment and in return they will show us their beauty.

As believers in the Son of God, Jesus Christ we are refreshed by the Holy Spirit like a well-watered garden. We are to allow Gods creation take hold so that we can steward others in their walk with Jesus.

Gardening is a form of worship and stewardship that mirrors God’s own role as a cultivator of life. A life every lasting where the earth will be restored, where people will plant vineyards and enjoy the fruit of their labor. (Isaiah 65:21-22)

Whether you live in a climate where gardening is year-round or like me waiting for the ground to unfreeze. Stay mindful of God’s creation, open your heart to His pruning, and share your garden with your community.