The ancient world valued gardens as rare treasures belonging only to kings and the wealthy. These weren't merely beautiful spaces but powerful symbols of divine blessing, order over chaos, and sacred communion. When Jesus declares "I am the true vine," he taps into this rich imagery that runs through Scripture from Eden to the New Jerusalem.

What does it mean to be connected to this true vine? Through captivating garden symbolism and practical horticultural wisdom from a guest gardener, this message reveals how we're designed to be "mini gardens" and "mini temples"—living spaces where God's presence dwells and flourishing occurs naturally. Yet this flourishing requires pruning.

The master gardener knows exactly which parts need trimming—those dead branches that look like they're giving life but actually block it, growing inward rather than outward, preventing light from penetrating. These might be chronic comparison, negative self-talk, unforgiveness, or desperate striving for approval. They're incompatible with being fully yourself and need to be removed.

Our responsibility isn't to produce fruit through frantic effort but simply to remain connected to the source. As we abide in Christ, fruit happens naturally. This Lenten season invites us to surrender to the pruning process, trusting that temporary discomfort leads to greater flourishing. The Father knows exactly what needs to be cut away so that we can become fully ourselves—flourishing gardens bearing witness to the life-giving presence of the true vine.

Are you willing to let go of what's blocking your growth? The divine gardener is ready to help you discover what it means to be fully alive, fully yourself, as you remain connected to the source of all life.

Join us! Facebook | Instagram | www.clcelkriver.org