The parable of the allotment
Part 2
Now, this parable of the allotment is clearly really about God, and the gifts he gives. However, before anyone thinks, “Oh, so it’s not true then; it’s just a story about a made-up figure”, I need to emphasise that this parable is completely true.
Well, maybe there’s one error, or, rather, one omission. In the story, the neighbour says, “It’s just round the corner; you can get there in two minutes”. However, some people might complain, “I’ve been searching for God for years and never found him! In fact, some so-called spiritual experts say it takes a lifetime of struggle before you really find God”. This disappointing, frustrating struggle is a genuine experience that many people suffer. However, within this parable, it is true to say that the allotment is just round the corner, near to hand whenever you need it. But perhaps we need to add one extra point.
So, now the neighbour needs to clarify.
“So, why don’t you try it? The allotment’s just round the corner from you; you can literally get there in two minutes. Oh, one thing: the allotment’s down a little path, and it’s easy to miss the gate. I walked that way for years and never knew it was there – but once you know it’s there, it’s easy to spot it. No, the gate’s never locked; sometimes it gets a bit stiff if no-one’s been for a while, but just fiddle with the latch and give it a shove and you’ll get in fine”.
Spiritual Devotion 