My Decision to Love My GardenMy boots sank into the sloppy wet mud. I had over-watered again. I cocked my head and stared at the pathetic tomato transplants. They drooped, the leaves shriveled and black. I sighed and wiped sweat beads tickling my forehead. Goodness, I’m bad at this. But I want to get good. Three years ago, when Jovani and I decided to start our own farming and ranching operation, I knew I would have to let go of my fantasy future where I had a dream job reading novels all day. God had other plans. My husband is innovative and hard working. Life is never boring. This year we decided to expand our gardening and sell vegetables at the local farmers markets. So, I’ve had to get serious. Isn’t it funny that the new motto in our culture is to avoid anything other than what you love, what your passion is? I don’t think God endorses that point of view. I’ve rarely experienced any sort of growth when I am only doing what I love and nothing else. Sometimes we need to smile, put a hat on our head, and get to work. God can provide us with the skills and passion to make our season flourish. Remember the story of Joseph and his coat of many colors? I am sure his dream future was to stay close to his father and brothers, to grow up there among his family in the land of his grandfather Abraham. But, that wasn’t his story. He was sold into slavery and God put him in the position to be the caretaker of the wealth and land in Egypt. However, you don’t read about Joseph pouting about his lost dreams. Instead, he flourished in the tasks that had been assigned him. I want to be like Joseph. One of the reasons I have never been drawn to gardening is because it isn’t a natural talent or ability for me. Just like the rest of humanity, I am drawn to tasks that come easy to me, that I can shine in. Gardening is a lesson in humility for me. I am glad Jovani is right there along side me. The book of James states that every good and perfect gift is from above. Sometimes we have a hard time trusting God when He gives us tasks outside of our comfort zone. But why not embrace it? Ask for passion and wisdom to honor God in your work. As for my tomatoes, the jury is still deliberating. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. Can you recall a season you spent outside your comfort zone? How did God grow you during that time?
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Isabela FarmWe are a farming and ranching family. From the pastures of sheep and cattle to the garden in our back yard, join our journey as we care for and cultivate plants and animals. Archives
December 2019
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