'Cultivating an Open Heart'
Break up for yourselves a new field,
for it is time to seek the LORD...
Hosea 10:12
In early spring, a common sight in some areas is the work of farmers who are tilling the soil. It's a ritual of the yearly growing cycle. Tilling is especially helpful in removing weeds and unwanted roots and in turning the earth over to welcome fresh air. Tilling breaks up the ground so that it will be more receptive to the planting of new seeds so that whatever is planted will more likely lead to an abundant harvest.
It may be a quirk of human nature that we don't question the act of tilling in the agricultural world but then are sometimes quick to protest when we're invited to "break up for [our]selves a new field" in our seeking God. What are the weeds and roots that stand in the way of our growth in the life of the Spirit? What openness of heart might we cultivate to most fully cooperate with God's grace?
Father Ed Bakker
Anglican Catholic Church / Original Province
Mission of Saint Aidan of Lindisfarne
Launceston on Tasmania
Australia
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