I am taking a day to work in the garden. The week has been full of activity and preparing for future events. But today, I seek a quiet day to sit and listen to the songs that fill the air from the breeze and the birds ringing small bells and chimes we have placed in strategic places. Indeed, it is a good day to spend in the garden.

I cherish the peaceful sounds of the tree farm near me. They free me to think without all the noise and distractions of daily life — and they free me to focus. I suppose it is like a date with my wife in some ways. Sunday we have a date for the Super Bowl. A nice dinner and focusing on each other as we spend time together. For me, it is the commercials. For my wife, it’s the game. For us, it is intentionally shared time of conversation and fun. It is wise to be intentional in our relationships with the ones we love. Sunday, I will focus on time with my wife. Today, I am being intentional with Jesus.

To be intentional is to be determined to act in a certain was as opposed to simply reacting to things. To be intentional is to focus on each other, which builds the bonds between us.

God was intentional when he created this earth for us to dwell in. And of course, it started in a garden. Things that make me go, “Hmmmm”. God intentionally created this earth and all that is, and it started in a garden. Maybe that’s why I feel so at home out here. God loves his garden. He certainly loves each of us!

I have attached some pictures of our bonsai and succulent specimens. I am learning much about patience and am feeling the joy of creation as I carefully care for, shape, and envision these miniature plants and trees. I have learned to be intentional in my care. That’s what was missing when my wife and I couldn’t grow much of anything—an intentional heart of nurturing and caring for the wonderful plants placed in our care. The intentional nurturing and caring for of each plant, getting to know what brings it joy, creates the blessing of their beauty, the fruit of their being, and the satisfaction of helping them become all they were created to be.

God was very intentional in creation. And beyond that, God intentionally shared his wisdom through Scripture as a way of nurturing our spirits and lives. His word, when understood and applied to our lives, helps us grow into all WE were created to be. God loves to see the intention of our hearts when we apply his love and wisdom to our lives.

“For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and INTENTIONS of the heart.” [emphasis added] ~~  Hebrews 4:12

Live with intention in the garden of YOUR life. Live with intention in your relationships with God and live with intention with each other.