Did you ever consider the parallels of Genesis, the Gospels, and Revelation? In the beginning there’s a garden, a tree of life, and rivers. In the gospels there’s a garden, a tree in the form of a cross, and rivers of living water. In Revelation there are trees whose leaves are for the healing of the nations (trees that give life) and a river of water of life (Rev 22:1). The garden, the tree, and the river, each, were givers of life. According to John 12:24, “Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it brings forth much fruit.” On a tree Jesus died, in a garden Jesus was buried, and in a garden He rose again resulting in an abundant harvest. And Jesus Himself is the water of life. In John 4:14, Jesus says that "whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Life in a garden also parallels the spiritual realm of our lives. In order for a seed to grow, it must be watered and cared for. The soil must be well prepared in order for the seed to take root and become a nourishing plant. Otherwise the seed will wither away and yield no fruit. But if seed is sown in “good” ground, it will spring up and bring forth much fruit! Good ground provides nourishment to the hungry soul. If you think about it, this was Adam’s first assignment, to tend the garden. Preparing the soil, planting seed, watering, and patiently waiting, will lead to a plentiful harvest! As we prepare the soil of our hearts to receive the seed of the Word, may it fall upon “good ground” as we celebrate our Savior who died, was buried, and rose again to newness of life!
