I like the metaphor of thinking about people like plants and flowers in a botanical garden as John describes in John 15. God being the creator and ultimate gardener. He is divinely astute and detail oriented so the beauty of His garden puts all who know him in awe.
I had the opportunity to experience Longwood Gardens over the holiday and was in awe of it's beauty. The surroundings of acres of meticulously manicured gardens is nothing short of a fairy tale experience. I was led there by a new found Christian friend so that made the experience that much more meaningful.
For me with this metaphor elicits a level of responsibility to God. I want Him to have the time to sit back and enjoy his creation the way I enjoyed Longwood Gardens. I don't want Him to have to spend most of his time pruning me so that I don't detract from the beauty of His other creations. It is true that with all gardens there will always be a certain amount of time in care of such a complex creation. I will need that nurturing because that is the care that continues to grow our relationship.
But it is my intent on staying close to the vine and doing my part to keep His garden one of awe, so that we both enjoy the ultimate beauty of the experience and effort.
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Let me suggest this: I have been in gardens with truly devoted gardeners, and to my surprise, they even find pruning a source of joy. Although I don't want grow weeds, I am also thankful The Master Gardener patiently rejoices in the growth that He knows will follow the pruning He gently gives. Just a thought.
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