Raymond Cheng, founding member of Creation Care 120
creationcare120.info
2022-05
My wife and I are not good at growing plants. Perhaps due to the constraints of the living environment, our busy and tight schedules, and the lack of time to take care of plants, our potted plants and flowers are dying on the windowsill at home. It may be slightly exaggerated, but it does reflect my powerlessness in growing plants. In the same way, we feel overwhelmed by the bad vibes in the world. We feel powerless when the world fails to suppress evil, wars, sicknesses, and disasters. However, even in these difficult times, planting can help to eliminate negative energy.
Thor Hanson (New York Times Bestselling Author, Biologist, and Wildlife Conservationist) wrote “The Triumph of Seeds.” about seeds. He marveled at how seeds are so dominant. The seed’s small yet graceful outer shell has overcome environmental challenges like the most lethal bomber, bursting life through the ground. His book inspired me to break through the doubts and difficulties in life.
The Bible often uses analogies of planting to describe the work of God. The Lord Jesus once said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the gardener.” (John 15:1) There is One who cultivates all living creatures. Our heavenly Father created all things in His love and causes growth in life. The sacrifice of His beloved Son Jesus Christ, who died for us on the cross, confirmed our relationship with Him. “…unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies … it produces many seeds.” (John 12:24). “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” (John 1:12)
In the parable of the sower, Jesus pointed out the greatness of life in seeds. When the seed falls on good soil, it produces an abundant crop. (Matthew 13:8) I spent more time growing plants this year, and I realized the importance of preparing good soil. Watering regularly and allowing plants to absorb enough sunlight and nutrients are essential missions that any gardener should not neglect. We will surely rejoice over the harvest one day. Similarly, the field of our hearts also needs to be prepared, allowing God’s truth to cleanse it regularly from weeds so that we are empowered to shine for Him every day.
For Christians, growing plants is not only a personal interest or hobby. We can learn to care for others through the planting process and have better communication with others. Our church hosted spring cleaning as in the past, and we promoted community gardens and planting to build bridges with those in the neighborhood. Through gardening, we can grow in love and care for the earth, avoid the use of pesticides, reduce carbon emissions and develop healthy eating habits. As spring and summer seasons come, let us put God’s beautiful environment to good use and testify together with the beauty and wonders of life.