The Vision of Justice:

Today’s focus is justice

This serene scene of a shepherd and his sons walking through a field of cosmos offers a profound lesson in justice. The shepherds, with their humble demeanor and steadfast purpose, represent a commitment to truth and integrity. Micah 6:8 urges us to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God." The cosmos, with its harmonious blend of colors in mathematical order, reminds us of the balance and fairness that justice seeks to achieve.

Each step the shepherds take is guided by truth, reflecting their understanding of treating others with respect and equality. In this field, justice is not just an abstract concept but a tangible force shaping their journey and interactions.

Consider how justice can guide your own actions. Like the shepherds, navigate your path with integrity, and recognize how acting justly leads to more compassionate and equitable relationships. This might mean standing up for yourself, and it can sometimes mean apologizing, too.

As we are each the judge of only one, justice encourages us to find just ways, like lining up at the checkout, to order ourselves according to the circumstance. As you carry this lesson forward, let the shepherds and the cosmos inspire you to act justly in all aspects of life. Embrace the challenge of living with integrity, knowing that just actions contribute to a more balanced and harmonious world. Let justice be the compass that directs your journey, guiding you towards a life of purpose and fulfillment, where every step is taken with intention and care.

Starry, Starry Cosmos

Sowing

After Jack Frost waves goodbye, it's time to tuck your seeds into the soil, just a teensy 1/8 inch deep. They’re sun-lovers but will root in less-than-perfect soil.

Growing

Cosmos may take their time to establish themselves in the garden, but once they do, they require approximately 12 to 18 inches of space to grow. Throughout the summer, they mostly appear as a lush, fern-like ball, but as the temperatures cool in the fall, the cosmos flowers will begin to pop out like stars in the sky.

Winter Work

When the flowering has past, gather the seeds and tuck them away in a cool, dry spot. They'll be ready to party next spring!

Flower Power

Cosmos add a sprinkle of special to bouquets and garden edges with their dainty, colorful petals. They’re like little fairy wands waving in the breeze! Cosmos are popular in cutting and cottage gardens due to their low-maintenance, late-blooming, and daisy-like flowers.

Superpowers

Cosmos plants offer valuable ecological benefits and have traditional medicinal uses. They are favored by organic gardeners for their ability to attract pollinators and natural pest predators such as lacewings and parasitic wasps. 

DAD WAS HERE  👃🏼 Why does it all smell so nice? "Cosmos" are flowers  🕵🏼♂️  

There’s More!

Cosmos, native to Mexico and Central America, were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. The flower received its name from Spanish botanist Antonio José Cavanilles in 1791, who chose the Greek word "kosmos" to reflect the flower's symmetrical arrangement of petals, symbolizing order and harmony: the universe.

The journey of cosmos continued as they were brought to England from Spain in 1789 and later reached the United States in the mid-1800s, where they became a popular addition to American gardens.