“…and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another,
as God in Christ has forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32
After walking out of Pentecost Sunday worship a few weeks ago, the sign above pulled me closer to investigate. I heard about St. Matthew’s community garden ministry before, and learned this is an important outreach ministry they share with the community. Don’t be dismayed by the fence, as this is only a boundary between the garden and the parking lot. There are no barriers or locks on this garden. It’s wide open for all to enjoy. You may not be able to see it in this picture but the bottom of the sign says: “See something you need? Pick it. Leave some for others.”
An invitation. A response. A simple sign with no strings attached, with a carefully worded encouragement to remind us we are part of something greater than ourselves—“Leave some for others.”
It’s a church-wide affair, this Rooted community garden. A few members of the congregation had recently spent time shoveling dirt the day before, doing the work necessary for seeds to be planted. A youth member created the colorful design, describing the meaning of the garden. Another member talked about the children and youth working in the garden on Tuesday nights, after a meal in the fellowship hall. Multi-generations engaged in gardening for neighbors and those seeing something they need.
Perhaps there is a connection of the roots with Paul’s words. As we strive to be kind to one another, we practice being tenderhearted. As these expressions of our desire to be more like Jesus spread out into the lives of others, might these actions become the way for us to forgive? I love how the roots in the photo above serve as a foundation for the name of the garden and how these roots are reaching out and below to seek the nourishment of the soil. For me, Paul’s instructions seem to be calling us to reach out – to be kind and tenderhearted – and forgiving one another will naturally occur.
Do you think there’s been moments of kindness shared in Rooted? I believe so. Have there been prayers of forgiveness prayed in Rooted? Sure. Did someone experience the forgiving grace of Jesus Christ in Rooted? I hope so.
How thankful I am for Rooted and all the ministry initiatives our Gateway churches are sharing with their communities as we seek to practice being kind, tenderhearted, and forgiving one another.
I offer these words as another reflection on Paul’s message for us today:
Kindness
abolishes fear
allows hope
arrives unexpectedly.
Kindness
combats weariness
confronts loneliness
conveys awareness.
Kindness
employs gifts
empowers others
engages gently.
Kindness
laughs easily
leans positively
loves unconditionally.
Blessings,
David
Photo Credit: David Blackman
Rooted – St. Matthew’s UMC Community Garden – May 2024