May 1: Where the Soul Meets the Soil

Where the Soul Meets the Soil 

Key Scripture
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
Psalm 90:12

Many people often ask me, “Where do you find the time to do backyard farming?”

I now realize this is a genuine question, and one that I answer with deep intention.

We all have the same 24 hours in a day. What differs is how we choose to use them. I want to say that again. We choose.

Scripture reminds us, “So be careful how you live. Do not live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Ephesians 5:15–16

Many of us make the decision to focus on family, goals, and work. We wake up and keep going, day after day. Eventually, time moves on and one day we realize that we are simply moving in a cycle, not truly caring for ourselves or our mental health. Often, it is only then that we stop, reflect, and decide to make changes.

But we do not have to wait.

We can begin by taking small steps, doing things that we enjoy and that support our wellbeing. It does not have to be farming. Each person must find their own niche. That is what I did.

I look forward to getting up each day and spending time in my yard. I enjoy raking the fallen leaves instead of blowing them, because it exercises my arms and supports my breathing. I use the lawnmower because it strengthens my arms and thighs. Lifting flower pots is also a form of exercise. The bending, the moving, the physical engagement is deeply therapeutic.

In these quiet, intentional moments, I am reminded that caring for the body is not separate from spiritual life. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own.”
1 Corinthians 6:19

I told my husband to help only when I cannot manage or when things get out of control. It is not that we do not pay for services when needed, because we do. But even then, we support this journey because it is our way of connecting with nature and caring for ourselves.

I wake up while everyone is sleeping, walk through the garden, rake fallen leaves, talk to the plants, and most importantly, commune with God.

God desires for us to be intentional about how we prioritize our wellbeing. This can be done before we are forced to do it.

Wise choices are not always loud or dramatic. Sometimes they are quiet, early morning decisions to care for the body, the mind, and the soul.

Prayer

Father God, thank You for the gift of time and the wisdom You freely offer. Help us to slow down, to choose wisely, and to care for the bodies and minds You have entrusted to us. Teach us to make room for rest, movement, and communion with You each day. May our choices honor You and bring life to our whole being. Amen.