Message from the Rector
Ow sos ger,
Then the LORD God planted a garden in Eden in the east, and there he placed the man (this was before Eve had been formed) he had made. Gen 2:8 NLT (italics mine).
We are told in the Bible that the garden is the place of work, where we occupy our hands and our minds. It gives us satisfaction and an understanding of our connectedness with the rest of the world. In the monastery, gardens would be kept for various purposes: a herbal garden, a medicinal garden, a vegetable, garden and a fruit garden perhaps including an orchard or two. In the old days our survival depended heavily on vigilantly tending the garden, however, nowadays we have farmers of all kinds of description, and we organise our markets in such a way that food is available whenever we want it and from wherever it might come from. Rarely are we unable to get exactly what we want.
So what is the role of the garden today? I believe this is the place where perhaps we work we may or not be paid to be there, it might also be the places around our home that need care and maintenance, it might also be coffee mornings and other group gatherings that require the deep work of listening and coming alongside.
We might currently be in our cell as we read this, or perhaps we are in the refectory or the garden. But let us spend a few moments thinking about the places that give us value and meaning, are they the same that give us a job, a title or role?
Where is it that we cultivate friendships? Or strengthen our family ties? Do we take time to meet with colleagues to encourage and nurture that bond? Are we willing to be available, or even vulnerable when we ourselves need understanding and care?
Are we aware of Gods presence with us when we are out in our proverbial or even literal gardens? If not, how might we change that? How could we become more aware of God with us even in the wilderness? Bramble thickets are a fact of life but if you look closely you will discover there is always fruit!
What does fruit look like for you?
Gras ha kres,
Caroline
ps. Don't forget we have Duggie Dug Dug coming to Probus this weekend -please tell your families about the free event taking place at St Probus and St Grace Church. Duggie Dug Dug will also be leading the service in the morning, it will be a great family service. Do invite the families who live near you, and bring your grandchildren. It is a special holiday venture and all are welcome.
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