Lesson from the Lawn

A wise man once told me, "It's good to change your mowing pattern, if you want a better looking lawn."  I have to be honest and admit that I didn't really get the message when I first heard this instruction/advice as a teenager.  But at almost 40, I think I finally understand what he was telling me.

This week, I pulled back on the cord of my Briggs & Stratton powered lawnmower, remembered these words and began mowing my lawn in a different pattern.  Lawn care experts out there will tell you to change the pattern of your mowing weekly to prevent wear patterns or ruts and so that your grass won't lay in one particular direction.  Ultimately, you want your lawn to grow straight up, stand tall, and be dramatically vibrant and green, without rut or patchy spot.

I pondered as I forged a new pattern in my lawn that there also is benefit in changing the patterns in my life.

Romans 12:2 tells us to "...Not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is — his good, pleasing and perfect will. NIV

It is so easy to fall into repetitive, comfortable  patterns in our own lives or to live mindlessly by the patterns of the culture around us.  The patterns of this world are seductive, tantalizing, mindless and tend to be the default of many-- even those who call themselves Christians.  The patterns of this world are also almost always self-centered, or self-focused...which will eventually wear you down...and do damage to the lawn of your life.

Is your life showing signs of wear?  Perhaps it's time to renew your pattern, renovate your mind and reset your life to the pattern of God's Will -- His good, pleasing and perfect will.

Thanks, Dad for the instruction and wise advice!