The Nearness of God is My Good

My garden is 2 years old, and half way through the summer its really starting to take shape. It's full, and blooming and it took time. Gardening reminds me to be patient - with myself and with others. Because it just takes time. You can water, and compost and weed, in fact, you must. But there is no substitute for time. It's not all in my control - I must wait and watch as things begin to take shape.

In my backyard there is a mum that is sort of pale green and anemic looking. It's not getting the time it needs in the sun, and its just hanging on. I see no buds and I don't think it will flower this year. It needs more time in the sun to bloom.

I feel like that too. Spiritually anemic. I need time in the sun to bloom. Sure, I can survive - hang on, but to be at my best I need to be absorbing the truth that comes from spending time with my God. Oddly, sometimes this feels like another chore. But that isn't true. The nearness of God is my good. I need it to bloom. I cannot give to others when I have neglected the first things. My life produces little fruit if I am anemic and weak from lack of time with my God.