I was feeling pretty pleased with myself, having planted 4 neat rows of potatoes, with (short) fencing around each of the two raised beds. But my efforts were all in vain when two or three days later the fencing was pushed to one side and there were small “pits” dug into the ground and the previously buried seed potatoes were scattered on the top of the soil.
What/who could have done it? We’re used to pheasants having a party in our garden with regular dust baths, but these “pits” looked different.
Fortunately some years ago, I had bought my husband a “trail cam” for a birthday present, so we dusted it off and inserted new batteries.
We didn’t have to wait long. The next night caught on camera – badger! He was lurking next to the vegetable beds that now had a double layer of fencing and vegetable cage. And he had the temerity to wander back across the camera over an hour later! (Fortunately our potatoes remained safely buried under the soil).
We were poorly prepared and had been caught out, by a thief in the night!
Last week we celebrated the Good News of the Risen Christ that first Easter Sunday. How soon do we forget that good news and go back to our old ways?
Are we sometimes complacent, making poor preparations for that day when he will come again? There are many references to the Day of the Lord coming like a thief in the night. (1 Thessalonians 5:2). In Matthew 24 and 25, Jesus uses various scenarios to make his point that those who are not vigilant will be caught out.
I was fortunate, and given a second chance, as Mr Badger decided that my potatoes were not to his taste so I was able to replant them.
The season of Easter gives us yet another chance to acknowledge the Risen Lord and to be prepared and watchful for that glorious time when he will come again.