“ ‘You certainly won’t die!’ the snake told the woman. ‘God knows that when you eat it your eyes will be opened. You’ll be like God, knowing good and evil.’ The woman saw that the tree had fruit that was good to eat, nice to look at, and desirable for making someone wise. So she took some of the fruit and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it. Then their eyes were opened, and they both realized that they were naked. They sewed fig leaves together and made clothes for themselves” (Genesis 3:4-7 God’s Word).

Our garden in June, 2012 – herbs, raspberries, blackberries, vegetables and pear tree

And that’s how it all began.

Humans saw the fruit as sensually desirable, a beauty to pursue and a source for instant, unearned  education. So they ate.

And what happened? Suddenly lusted replaced respectful, romantic love, so they had to hide themselves from each other AND God.

So what do you lust for? God-like power? Things to appease your senses? Easy smartness or status?

These will drive you away from God.

The alternative, “Serve the Lord cheerfully” (Psalm 100:2 God’s Word), leads to eternal satisfaction.

As I read through many blogs I see doctrinal arguments flying everywhere. Now, some of these seem important. Some probably are significant.

I have spent most of my adult life as an academic. I have found it personally inspiring and exciting, but in the past very few years I have searched for the simplicity that Jesus promised is present in serving the Saviour. Read more…

“You give glory to my Father when you produce a lot of fruit and therefore show that you are my disciples” (John 15:8 God’s Word).

Part of the joy of gardening comes from planting more than we can use and sharing. Our carrots, beets, zucchini, squash, as well as yellow and cherry tomatoes got shared this year. Winter onions and garlic added to the list. Then there were the flowers which we shared. Read more…