Fallow Fields

In the spring of the year, before Wayne died, we would often find ourselves driving through rural Southside Virginia. Dominating the landscape were fields plowed and ready for crops or just showing signs of something growing in neat, parallel rows that seemed to go on for miles. Occasionally I would see an unplowed field or one covered with bright green grass. They were called "Fallow Fields".

The idea of the fallow field is to allow time for the soil to rest and regenerate. Benefits include nutrients being replenished, potassium and phosphorus rising to the surface to be used for later crops, raising the level of carbon, nitrogen, and organic matter, improving moisture retention, and increasing the number of beneficial microorganisms in the soil. A fallow field also disrupts the life cycle of pests. Exodus 23: 10-11 instructs to “let lie fallow [fields]” in the seventh year and relates the practice to that of resting on the seventh day.

Jeremiah tells Judah to “...break up your fallow ground; don’t sow seeds among thorns” (Jeremiah 4:3). Of course, he was not only talking about an agricultural practice but also a spiritual one. He was telling the Israelites to prepare their hearts for righteousness, to remove obstacles and replenish beneficial nutrients that would allow spiritual growth.

Recently I was experiencing a period of unrest, finding it hard to concentrate and getting little satisfaction in anything I was doing, even in the church. The term “burn out” scorched my brain. Yet I am a person who, once I have undertaken a task or accepted an obligation, loathes to “quit.” Through candid conversations with people I trust, I was led to discover that it’s ok to rest, to give myself time to regenerate.

I backed off some projects, I practiced saying “no” to some things I was asked or thought about undertaking. I gave myself permission to have an afternoon with absolutely nothing planned. Wow, that hasn’t happened in years!

Now that doesn’t mean I neglect everything. Instead, I am finding more time for intensive Bible study, for intentional time with Michael doing things we both enjoy like working in the yard and taking long walks—even without the dog! I am not rushing through prayer because something else awaits my attention. I am beginning to reestablish that connection with God that had grown tenuous.

The results are becoming visible. When unexpected circumstances occur, I don’t shut down. I do take time to discover what needs to be done—and ask for help from others! I have less catastrophic thinking and more critical thinking. When I discover a word, a concept, a parable that puzzles me, I take the time to research, and if that takes me down a rabbit hole, then I realize I am experiencing spiritual growth; no research is wasted.

When Israel had fallen into fertility idol worship (not that I went that far!), Hosea suggests God will discipline them; he exhorts Israel to repent and return to seeking the Lord:
Fallow fields may look like not much is going on, but the rest must take place for nutrients to be replaced. Our nutrients come from Bible study, prayer, fellowship—the means of grace—intentional time focused on God. I have discovered once again that when I put God first, any work or problem becomes easier or more satisfying. I am ready to be cultivated, to respond to the task God will give me when the time is right. Is it a time for your field to be fallow, to rest, to get rid of pests and disease, to raise the level of nutrients in the soil of your soul? The results will be greater and healthier crops for God’s kingdom work.