Shepherd's Heart 5/30/25

Especially good gardeners seem to know the right ingredients for growth: Fresh seeds planted in rich soil, exposed to the right sunlight, and watered wisely will produce thriving plants. Gardening has never been my gift. Mother’s Day was only a few weeks ago, yet I’m terrified that I will kill the beautiful bonsai tree placed in my care. I’d rather enjoy such tender, green things in their natural habitats.

I’ll tell you what tender, green things I do love to cultivate. Young people. These sprigs, in their natural habitat, are fresh, alive, and ready to blossom. Tending to their growth fascinates me and brings me joy. During Vacation Bible School one summer, I giggled, on the floor, along with five-year olds, as we embedded the soil of Play-Doh under our nails. The next summer, at Eternal Impact, middle schoolers and I made paper crafts on which we glued unsuspecting cicadas. Sundays at Ignite, I wistfully revisited high school girl drama and failed to understand boy antics. Yes, Biblical stories, mysteries, and parables were unraveled. I will unravel even more this summer with our young adults, who will spread their “pollen” to college in the fall. Air, water, sunlight, and good gardeners are always needed to grow and sustain these budding lives.

Linda Elaine | Council Vice President