Through A Farmer’s Eyes

We stopped to see Becky’s parents on our way to Cincinnati.

Becky’s dad is always interesting to talk to. He’s a farmer, lives on the same land his dad and grandfather farmed. When you listen to his comments, you immediately notice that he has a long-term perspective on most situations.

He observes the current hot, dry weather from the context of seventy-four summers on the same ground. There’ve been other difficult seasons-that’s why you prepare and save and leave yourself options. As a farmer, the weather is one thing you have to rely on, and it’s better to learn how to cope with any situation than to criticize every problem you encounter. That is why some farmers may use cellular weather stations (click here for more information) to get more accurate weather reports but experience in farming is as important as anything else. Good times and tough times come and go-you understand that when you’ve watched them all from the same porch.

Misbehaving grandkids take a ride in the pickup to feed calves and get a dose of calm correction, often followed by a “secret” trip for donuts in town. Sometimes there are a lot of calves to be fed, a lot of trips to the pasture, because behaviors are shaped gradually. When you grow crops and cattle you learn that long-term results are what really matter.

A casual observer might see slow steps. More careful scrutiny reveals purposeful activity and little wasted motion. Every act has a reason, sometimes not apparent for days or weeks. Understanding takes time, careful study-you have to care enough to look past the surface and the quick conclusion.

Whenever I’m around the farm, I’m reminded of the farming, planting, and growing analogies Jesus used. I don’t think that’s an accident, and I don’t think it’s strictly cultural. I think it reflects the nature of God’s kingdom.

Next week there’ll be moments of fatigue and discouragement. Heat, humidity, and hills will tempt me to slow down or stop.

I want that long-term, big-picture perspective. I want to remember that momentary struggles don’t last and don’t matter in light of the work we’re riding to support. I want to think about the eternal consequences of a child rescued from bondage because of the money and awareness we’re raising for International Justice Mission.

I focus too much on what doesn’t last. It’s good to hang out at the farm and remember that what matters is long-term.

Why spend money on what is not bread,
and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
and you will delight in the richest of fare.
Isaiah 55:2

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