Harvesting Hope: Nurturing the Soul in Your Garden - Shelley S. Cramm - 136 - McPlants

Harvesting Hope: Nurturing the Soul in Your Garden – Shelley S. Cramm – 136Craig McManus

Harvesting Hope: Nurturing the Soul in Your Garden - Shelley S. Cramm - 136

Today's episode is an enlightening conversation with Shelley S. Cramm, the insightful author of "My Father is the Gardener."

She writes regularly for her Devotions Blog at GardeninDelight.com, and speaks enthusiastically to garden clubs and faith groups about plants of the Bible and how to connect garden work and harvest joys in the Word of God

Shelly’s background includes a Master of Architecture from University of Illinois, Chicago, work in architectural and garden design, leadership in local Bible study, prayer groups, Toastmasters International, and GardenComm: Garden Communicators International.

In this engaging discussion, Shelley’s shares her unique perspective on the profound connection between ancient scriptures and contemporary gardens.

We'll explore her journey from morning journaling to the laundry (yes, you heard that right!) and out into the garden.

Learn about the origins of her inspiration and how an encounter with "Secrets of the Vine" sparked a deep connection between the Bible and her gardening endeavors.

We'll delve into the pages of her book, examining the biblical plants that serve as metaphors for life's profound concepts. From fig leaves to mustard seeds, each plant carries a story waiting to be uncovered.

Today's episode is a captivating crossroad blend of spirituality and horticultural insight.

My Father is the Gardener book cover
- courtesy of Shelly Cramm

My Father is the Gardener: Discovering Spirituality Through the Bible's Oldest Gardening Book

Episode Notes

Shelly Cram, author of 'My Father is the Gardener', discusses the inspiration behind her book and her journey to understand the Bible’s teachings through the lens of gardening.

With little religious upbringing, she turned to the Bible in search of wisdom when she became a mother. An encounter with Dr. Bruce Wilkinson's book 'The Secrets of the Vine' ignited her interest in the Biblical references to gardening and vineyards.

Shelly found surprising depth in these metaphors, leading her to write a book to offer a gardener's perspective on the Bible.

Despite lacking a background in horticulture or Bible scholarship, Shelly was compelled to complete this project.

She discusses the significance of various plants mentioned in the Bible, the importance of soil preparation, and the unexpected beauty and resilience of biblical plants.

Shelly emphasizes the theme of creativity in gardening and encourages everyone to view themselves as gardeners.

Drawing from her experience, she discusses valuable gardening mistakes, influential figures in her gardening journey, and memorable gardening advice.

There's an exploration of the interconnectedness of botany, gardening, and art in her work.

Shelly concludes by urging readers to eliminate fear associated with gardening and embrace the healing power of the garden.