If you visit Ffald y Brenin this time of year, you’ll find some baby plants being nursed in the greenhouse and polytunnel until they are strong enough to be planted outside. It’s part of a beautiful process of growth. First, a seed is planted. Over time, a green shoot appears, but still needs tender care and protection. Finally, it is ready to be transplanted into the garden outside.
In the garden, the plant is exposed to the elements, which, in windy West Wales, can be fierce at times! But here it is also exposed to the attention and enjoyment of people. A plant hidden in the polytunnel would be missing its purpose of flowering and bearing fruit in the glory of the garden.
We can draw some spiritual parallels from this process. As we look at the garden of our lives in springtime, we can reflect on which kinds of seeds we are planting, where we have green shoots worth protecting, and whether it might be time to move some plants to face the elements of the garden.
Here are some questions to ponder with the Holy Spirit (and maybe a friend!)
1. What harvest/fruit do you want to see in your life?
2. What seeds are you currently planting? Do they match with the fruit you hope for?
3. What are some bulbs or green shoots that already show life that you want to protect and care for? How can you do this?
4. Is there an area of your life/spiritual development that has been sheltered long enough and needs to be placed into its proper place in the garden?
5. Who are fellow gardeners that can help cultivate your garden? Is there someone who is a bit further along in their journey that can give you guidance, support, and encouragement?