In The Garden

Have you ever thought about why Jesus went to a garden to pray before His crucifixion?  I hope you will ponder on this question because I think the answers are important.  Let's think together about gardens.

The Garden of Eden is a beginning place.  Eden begins our journey as humans, through time, history, trials, joys, and life itself.  God walked with humans in Eden.  Eden is where we rose up from the dirt, where gender was created and formed, and where we fell as the human race (this is the only 'race' that even matters).

The Garden of Revelation (Rev. 22, right in the middle of the New Jerusalem) is a restoration of all that was lost in the Garden of Eden.  All things are brought back to God's original intent.  This is the place where humanity rises.  All names written in the Book of Life (Rev. 21) will be here.  The Bible calls this the place where "the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them (Rev. 21:3)."

In the story of Jesus' death and resurrection, there is another garden ... Gethsemane.  This garden recognizes the fall and failure of Eden, but it is also a place where a changed relationship is announced.  It begins God's restoration, consummated in Jesus' death and resurrection, and in our full belief in what Jesus did.  Gethsemane is both terrible and wonderful, and it ushers in a new relationship with God.

Between now and Maundy Thursday, April 17th, we will walk, talk, listen, and pray In The Garden.  I hope you will join us, for this small section of the Gospels tells us much about God, God's nature, God's plans, and how we can become better servants and followers of God.  Come join in.  Sit awhile.  Take off your shoes, and sit down your burdens.  Let's listen together, as Jesus converses, prays, and gives us a window into some beautiful truth.  It might just set you free!  Randy