Gardening

I planted my garden this morning (Saturday).  My dad always told me that you are good to plant on, or after, Good Friday.  And so, I put tomato, pepper, and squash plants in the ground.  Later I will plant okra from seed. I already have potatoes and lettuce growing.

            I’ve been planting vegetables since the early 1990’s. Prior to that I helped my dad.  I learned most of what I know about gardens from him. 

            Growing my own garden is important to me. I know I can get good vegetables from any number of sources, and it would not be nearly as much work. But there is something special to me about partnering with God to see stuff grow.  I am aware that I need to do things in the right way. That means preparing the soil, using the right fertilizers, planting at the proper time, and keeping the ground watered. 

            But still, I cannot make anything grow.  That is the Lord’s work.  Gardening helps me to realize the same thing is true for my day job.  I am to preach, witness and love people, but only God can change a life. What is true in my garden is true in my church.

            The other reason I plant my garden is simply to honor my dad.  When my sister hears me talk about my garden she will roll her eyes and say, “You are your father’s son.”  I think she means that as a compliment, and I know I take it that way.  But dad grew his own tomatoes and peppers until he simply could not do so. I plan to do the same thing.  Every time I step into my garden I think of him, and I thank God for the heritage of my family.

            Oh, there is one other thing.  You may not have heard it before, but Ludlow Porch used to play this song on WSB radio in Atlanta.  The final words of the chorus go like this, “There’s only two things that money can’t buy, and that’s true love and homegrown tomatoes.”  And that is the truth!