Then God said, “I’ve given you every sort of seed-bearing plant on Earth And every kind of fruit-bearing tree, given them to you for food. To all animals and all birds, everything that moves and breathes, I give whatever grows out of the ground for food.” And there it was.
Genesis 1: 29-30 The Message
Springtime in the Wenatchee Valley means plants and trees and grass are growing. It is one of my favorite times of year, as even the hills around our valley have a hint of green, before the heat of the summer turns them brown.
The creation story from the Book of Genesis reminds us of the purpose behind plants and trees. They are food for both humans and all other creatures upon the earth. Here in Wenatchee, our community celebrates the Apple Blossom Festival. We give an entire week to celebrate apples. Although the true purpose of the celebration may get lost within the festival, it still is all about one particular kind of the fruits the Lord gave to us. It is also an extremely healthy fruit. Some have suggested that eating an apple before each meal is very good for your digestive system. Think of that! God's creations have multiple purposes for healthy living.
Here in these verses, God is very intentional about turning over plants and the trees to all moving creatures upon the earth. We are given authority over all the earth. We are to care for that which grows from the earth. With this responsibility comes the expectation that we will appreciate and use all that He has given to us.
The Lord looks down upon us, His children, and nurtures us. He is our gardener, and He tenderly cares and manages. Yes, there are times a rototiller is needed, but pruning and fertilizer are also a part of His care taking to us. We need to remember to be thankful and grateful for His provisions. We must be wise, as He is with us. May we enjoy all that He has given to us, and be thankful for the good intentions behind His creations. May we exercise good stewardship of all with which the Lord has blessed us. God spoke, and there it was. We live in His created world, and rejoice in it. Hallelujah!
Prayer
Creator God,
I thank you for each of the seasons. Right now, I offer You praise for this season of springtime, where the trees are budding, the grass is growing, and the earth seems alive! I thank you especially for fruit trees, which offer us delicious and nutritious food. Help me to approach each meal I consume with an attitude to thanksgiving, for Your abundant provision for my every need. I pray this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.
