Agricola Urbanus - Take Dominion over a Yard

This post is a follow-up on the benefits and drawbacks of a cash economy.  Did you ever think of the biblical command to take dominion over the earth?  Want to do it?  Think you need a huge farm?  Think again.  Regardless of your circumstances, you have been placed in a location where the Lord would have you take care of this world and your surroundings.  Maybe it's a multi-thousand acre farm.  Maybe it's a 30x60 foot lot like where I now live.  Maybe it's an apartment or a dormitory room.  When I think of taking dominion over a yard, it may be a lawn or it may be a "yard," i.e., a three foot by three foot area.  We've all got at least a few of those.

I started thinking about the idea of urban farming some years ago when I noticed someone in our neighborhood had fancy colored lettuces among the flowers along the sidewalk.  Why not?  Actually, I wouldn't be likely to do that since I am not fond of lettuce.  But if there's something you want and it can fit tastefully into a planted area you have, why not put it in?  Here are a few really simple ideas.

 ~~ Apple trees produce apples, blossoms, and shade.  If you're going to plant a tree, think about a fruit tree.

 ~~ An herb garden may well fit into a foot-wide place along a porch or walk.

 ~~Raspberry and blackberry under windows could prove very interesting if someone wished to break into that window and rob your house.

 ~~ Some vegetables have large yields in small sunny places.  I especially think about pole beans and carrots.  More posts on those later.

Of course, not all dominion over your space involves food.  Know what's in your yard?  Part of good stewardship is watching the condition of your property.  While you do, keep your eyes open for the wonders of God's creation.  What has he placed right under your nose waiting for you to notice?  Give glory to God and see what you see all around you. 

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Dave Spotts
blogging at http://capnsaltyslongvoyage.blogspot.com and http://alex-kirk.blogspot.com