11.19.2025 | Ordinary Wednesday

Putting Things in Order
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
—Psalm 51:10
 
It’s still dark outside as we walk through the Garden this Wednesday morning. The little Doodle girl is bouncing around, delighting in the chill and the quiet. I’m walking slowly, realizing that the Garden is finally put to bed for the season. The list of outdoor chores is complete. The list of indoor ones, however, is growing by the day.
 
This is the time of year when we repair the tools. Clean everything. Organize and reassess what’s needed. What can be salvaged, and what must be replaced. As Dr. B likes to say, it’s about putting things in order.
 
It’s also the season for pruning, not just in the Garden, but in life. I’m sorting through the clutter that’s accumulated, letting go of what I no longer need or use. It’s a good thing to do. Necessary, even.
 
And it’s a good time to look inward.
 
What in my heart needs to be surrendered to make room for grace? What hurts, frustrations, or old angers have taken root and need to be pulled up? More than I care to admit, if I’m being honest. But it’s time. Time to forgive. Time to move on. Time to lighten the load on these old knees. A little less to carry on this aching back.
 
Let go. Move forward. Forgive. Be thankful. Fix what I can. Release what I can’t. And above all, be grateful for what I have.
 
Spend a little more time with the Creator of all things. Listen more. Listen closely.
 
Lighten the load.
 
“Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”
—1 Peter 5:7
 
Let stillness be a sanctuary.
Let the pruning bring peace.
Let my heart find rest in the One who tends all things with love.
As I walk through the quiet Garden,
may I feel the gentle whisper of grace
reminding me: you are loved, just the way you are.  Right now.