The Fenced-in Garden

Near my house is a Panera Bread Restaurant that was originally a Millie’s Restaurant. When it changed hands, only two things stayed the same—the roof and a little fenced-in garden in front of the entrance. I’m glad Panera kept the garden. We need it.

In the midst of a bustling parking lot, a three-and-a-half-by-five-foot white picket fence protects a garden of roses and lilies. It’s a physical representation of what every person needs: a fenced-in garden in the midst of a busy life.

So often our lives are like the parking lot, always active with coming and going. But right there—day in and day out—stands the picket fence and the garden. For anyone who pauses more than a second, it seems to call us to take time in each busy day to rest our souls.

This kind of fence is our best friend.

The time we establish to meditate on God’s Word becomes like that fence that establishes freedom from the compulsion to respond to every beep and bell.

If you haven’t already, I challenge you to establish a fence of time around yourself every day. This fence of time could start as short as five minutes. Grow it to ten, twenty, thirty, or an hour if you’re able.

The earlier in the day, the better—whatever your schedule can handle. This has nothing to do with seeing how long you can read the Bible and pray so God will be happy. He despises such works righteousness. Rather, it’s about spending time with the Lover of your soul. Talk to him. Listen to him. Read and reflect on his Word. The time is for you to enjoy. It’s for nourishing your soul with Christ-centered peace, wisdom, and direction.

This fence is your way of saying, “I hereby establish this regularly appointed time to keep daily busyness at bay so I can connect with my Creator and focus on the most important things. And I will not feel guilty about it.”

If you don’t have time to do this, that’s the primary reason you need to do it.

Be blessed as you do.