Finding Divine Connection: Gardening, Nature, and the Essence of God
by Glenn Wayne Trede
As Glenn Wayne Trede defines it, a profound connection to something greater often emerges during quiet moments spent in nature For many, gardening becomes a pathway to experience the divine, a sacred act of tending to the earth that can bring a deeper understanding of God’s
presence We nurture life and a spiritual bond as we dig our hands into the soil, plant seeds, and watch them grow.
In its raw beauty, nature holds an innate power to remind us of God's creation. The vibrant flowers, the towering trees, and the birds chirping in the morning each part of nature reveals a divine touch Gardens become spaces where we can slow down and tune into this essence, whether wild or meticulously planned. Planting and watching a seed flourish is a metaphor for our spiritual growth Just as a garden needs water, sunlight, and care to thrive, so do we need nourishment, love, and time to connect with the divine
We learn patience and humility in these moments of tending to a garden Growth is a gradual process, and it teaches us that we must wait, trust, and honor the rhythms of life Similarly, our connection with God often requires patience as we seek to understand the divine presence in our lives Gardening becomes an act of surrender, a reminder that we cannot control everything but cultivate a relationship with nature and God through our actions.
The earth itself is a reflection of divine creativity and wisdom Whether it's the intricate design of a single leaf or the balance of ecosystems, nature embodies the qualities often attributed to God: order, beauty, and harmony As we witness these miracles unfold in our gardens, we can feel the presence of the divine, reminding us that we are part of something far more significant than ourselves.
Gardening offers a tangible, sensory way to encounter the divine By connecting with the earth, we can experience a spiritual awakening that brings us closer to God, embracing the sacred’s simple yet profound moments