Be the dirt! – 22 January 2021

What could be lowlier than dirt? When we feel really badly done by we complain that we were treated like dirt. Dirt is the stuff that people and animals tread on. In Asian countries you wouldn’t dream of bringing the dirt under your shoes indoors. You take your shoes off and leave the dirt outside.

Yet, there are people who just love dirt!

The gardeners of this world don’t judge the soil for being dirty because they know that dirt is the stuff that brings glory to their gardens. Without soil we wouldn’t have had gardens and trees and shrubs and fruit and vegetables. What’s more, a gardener knows that the soil is alive with possibilities when it is nurtured and dug in with the decaying leaves and rotten plants of the compost heap. But they also know it’s of no use covered up under a plastic sheet to make it look more attractive. You have to spread it around.

We as human beings are a little like dirt or humus. When our own stubborn nature and will are “dug in” with a touch of humility and according to God’s will, our inner garden or spiritual life will thrive. So next time you are humbled, rejoice. That’s what makes your soul bloom.

PS. The words “humus” and “humility” have the same root. So when you act humbly you are close to the soil. And the soil is where growth begins.

Prayer: Lord, often we reject the goodness of your teachings that help us to grow. Teach me that humility is not meant to humiliate me, but to help me grow in faith and wisdom. Amen