Changing Seasonal Metrics

May 16, 2022

Scripture

Now Jesus was deeply troubled, and he exclaimed, “I tell you the truth, one of you will betray me!” The disciples looked at each other, wondering whom he could mean. …. Then Jesus told Judas, “Hurry and do what you’re going to do.” …. Dear children, I will be with you only a little longer. And as I told the Jewish leaders, you will search for me, but you can’t come where I am going.  So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.  Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.” (John 13:21,22,27,33-35 NLT)

Changing Seasonal Metrics

“You better buy what you need now because our suppliers are out”, said the nursery manager. I dropped in last week to consult with them about my plans for a bunch of pots and raised gardens we have on our deck. Expecting to come back in a couple of weeks I suddenly came home to store what I need till frost risk ends.

Two years ago, the nurseries opened from shutdowns at the last minute and we grabbed what we could but herbs were nowhere to be found. Last year was a bit better but suppliers and retailers were tentative- and now there is no mistake – “Do it now”. In the maelstrom of confusion, we keep planting beauty that flowers.

Our relationships, friendships, families and communities need the same. From the pain of conflict and dissension over the last couple of years we have become self-protective, tentative and alternatively angry and judgemental.

During Jesus’ last evening with his friends, he faced the same things. He had a betrayer at his table. When he left the room, Jesus didn’t advise his friends to be careful and self-protective because life is risky. Instead he said “Love one another” to demonstrate that they really followed the Loving Truth.

It is springtime and an opportunity to plant that which will be beautiful as it grows. Jesus calls us to the same – plant love, forgiveness and reconciliation, and beauty will be the result.

A Prayer for Today

O God, you brought me from last night’s rest to the new light of this day. Sharpen my ears to your voice. Help me be open, loving and joyfully share the load with others. Lead me, O God on the journey of justice, mercy, and faith. Busy as I am, help me do what is most important. Guide me, O God on the pathways of peace. Renew me, O God by the wellsprings of grace today, tonight, and forever. Shape me to be the person you have in your heart for me to be …. For Jesus’ sake