neglect: v, to give little attention or respect to; disregard; to leave undone or unattended to, especially through carelessness.

The weeds did what weeds do when they aren’t dealt with and have free rein–they took over the flower bed. The dandelions and sprawling weed masses buried the flowering plants. One weed had taken up residence at the very front of the bed, right next to the sidewalk. It grew to a staggering height of three feet, a feat accomplished as it buried its roots deep in rock-hard soil with no food or water source. Weeds do have the advantage when it comes to neglect.

I call this area of my garden “the lower 40.” I don’t have forty acres, but the space is outside my fenced back yard, and I don’t check it out all that often. I had weeded every other bed in my garden more than once this season but repeatedly postponed dealing with this one. “Out of sight. Out of mind.” The space shouted “Neglect!”

Today was the day! I determined I needed to tackle the weeding project. The temperature cooperated–not too hot, not too cold. Besides, when I passed by that part of my yard while going for a walk, I wanted to cover my eyes due to its unkempt appearance. I could only imagine what the neighbors and passersby thought. It was time–actually, way past time.

I started on the space adjoining my neighbor’s property. Bit by bit, I worked my way down to the sidewalk. I go into deep thought when I am doing hands-and=knees weeding. The thought hit me–hard. I have no one to blame but myself for the state of things.

Progress is always a great motivator. As I dug out the unwanted growth, the sedum planted underneath revealed itself. I’ve planted it as a ground cover, its bright pink blossoms creating a carpet. In spite of my neglect, the project didn’t take all that long and wasn’t all that hard. It left me wondering: I wonder what I have buried in “the lower 40” of my mind and inner being?. What am I not wanting to look at or deal with?

My “wondering” thoughts became a prayer, a request that God would deal with my spiritual neglect and that He would remove the weeds from within me. Father, please search me and reveal those things I am trying to ignore, those areas I am refusing to deal with.

Life happens. As humans we quickly and easily get caught up in the concerns and affairs of life. For me, that includes the purchase of a heat pump system for my tenant and myself, a family get-together, and . . . recent erratic sleep. Before we know it, the part that really matters–our spiritual part, gets overlooked and put on the back burner. It becomes neglected.

A spiritual garden without regular and consistent care does not differ from my “lower 40.” Weeds, either physical or spiritual, have the ability and capability to thrive in the starkest of environments. Neglected soil creates a prime breeding ground for undesirables and quickly fills with growth. The towering weed in my bed, along with all the others, bears that out.

Since I completed the necessary weeding in my neglected space, I find myself walking up and down the sidewalk, admiring the beauty of my plants. I am grateful for the reminder I need to tend my inner garden as well. Or the weeds will take over.

God is the Master Gardener. Seek His help in tending your spiritual garden.

A farmer went out to sow his seed

Other seed fell among thorns.

which grew up with it and choked the plants.

Luke 8:5, 8 NIV

Note to self: Do not neglect your garden(s). You have no one to blame but yourself.