This spring, I decided to play in the dirt again. I’d avoided all things green for three years after I got a horrible case of poison ivy by pulling weeds without wearing gloves. I wanted my husband to think I was a real gardener.
And only thing I knew for sure about summer plants was that marigolds love sun and heat.
Anyone can take care of them, right? How hard could it be?
I found my tin watering cans and bought a potted caladium and a tray of marigolds.
I didn’t waste time reading plant care directions.
I threw potting soil in my watering cans, and in less than five minutes, I created a summer garden on our porch!
Days later, I moved the marigolds to our patio. Total sun.
They’re tough. They can handle it.
For almost a week I ignored a gentle prompt.
Water the marigolds.
Saturday morning, their lovely heads were bent toward their feet. Their poor leaves had shriveled up.
I’d ignored them for so long, I’d killed them!
I gave them a long, cool drink, but I was wasting my time. They were goners.
I left the kitchen. Couldn’t bear to watch them die.
An hour later they were a tad perkier, but the damage was done.
I left them overnight, hoping and praying for a miracle.
The next morning, I peeked with one eye shut.
It’s a miracle!
My marigolds had been restored!
“Welcome back, girls,” I whispered. “Sorry I forgot about you.”
At times, I’ve ended up just like my wilted marigolds.
Parched. Exhausted.
I thought I was tough enough to do life on my own.
I forgot I needed God every hour.
I forgot to drink from the Living Well.
The water I give will be an artesian spring within, gushing fountains of endless life. John 4:14 (MSG)
If you can’t see the video, click here. It’s a beautiful reminder of how much we need Him.
Have you ever ended up my wilted marigolds?
Love,
Julie