Weeding

There are so many lessons to be learned in the mundane tasks of life.  Often times I don't feel like taking the time to notice them, and I drudge through dishes, laundry, sweeping and chores with a grumble.  Dirty again?  Does it ever end?  Can't I take a day off?  I am, in fact, even avoiding a pile of dirty dishes in my sink at this very moment.

But occasionally I'm reminded that the most trivial task, even changing a dirty diaper, can be done with thanksgiving, with growth, and all for the glory of God.

The kids and I went down to the garden to pick sugar snap peas this afternoon.  I wanted to moan when I opened the gate and walked in.  Weeds.  I had just dug up mountains of weeds a week ago!  I leaned over to pull a clump of grass.  An internal dialogue began in which I argued with myself about whether or not it was worth it to pull this clump of grass.  There are SO SO SO many more!  I can't possibly pull them all.  Why start?  But pulling this one will make one less.  One less is, well, it's at least one less!  It's hot, and I'm tired so that's all I'll do.  They won't go away on their own, though.  Ok, I'll pull another.

It's not easy pulling the weeds.  

They keep coming back.  

They suck the life out of the good plants.

Oh, my soul!  Am not I the same as this garden?  Dragging my feet to rid myself of my weeds:  my desire to say something not so nice about someone else, the judgement I pass on another mom, the impatience I show towards my child.  I don't like to look at these weeds, and it's hard to pull them, but pull them I must... even if it's just one little weed at a time.  Even if I have to come back and pull it again and again.  Humility, patience, and love must have more room in order to flourish.

I didn't get to all the weeds, but I pulled some.  I closed the gate being thankful for one of the lessons a garden has to offer... thankful for the opportunity for growth. 

Lord Jesus Christ Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.