I spoke to my friend Shannon, an experienced gardener, and following her advice, my garden has largely been successful — my first one in about 25 years. I bought container boxes, soil, and plants — tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, and cauliflower. I transplanted the seedlings in the first week of June, the best time in Winnipeg. One of the tomato plants died because I forgot to drill drainage holes into the boxes. After I drilled many holes near the bottom of each container, the garden started to improve.

Then in late July, two more tomato plants had died. Then, I looked at the maple trees. My vegetables were not getting enough sunshine because of the shade from the maple trees. I had never trimmed them for the 32 years that I had been living in my house. As I pruned the trees with my son's help, the tomato plants continued to improve. I needed to tend to both the vegetable garden and the maple trees. They work together. I am still learning how to garden. These plants needed drainage and more sunlight.

It is lovely to work in the garden with assistance. In the same way in life, God works and we work — together. God is not finished with me yet.

Romans 11:16b-18 – If the root is holy, the branches are too. But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. (NASB)

As I attend to the maple trees, I think of Christ, the Root. The thick stock of the maple trees reminds me of the elders at my church. They are older and wiser than I am. They are there and listen patiently to us members, the branches, and they give wise advice. I miss visiting with them. I do telephone them and pray for them, and I encourage you to do the same. The elders are a gift to the church, hard-working and wise.

Prayer: Lord, we are part of the body of believers, whether we worship together or apart. But we are never apart from You. We all depend on You. Thank You for our ministers, elders, church administrators, members, adherents, youth leaders, family members, and friends. Thank You for this network of support that You have provided, especially for Christ, the Root, Who nourishes us all. Amen.