More than a Garden

Cont’d from page 3

It is lovely to picture a quiet mountain stream through deep woods. That is a place I like to go. It is even lovelier to imagine that stream and those woods filled with people in joyful companionship—never angry, never jealous, never bored.

“Those who reverence their Lord will be led to Paradise in throngs. When they get to it, and its gates are opened, its guards will say, “Peace be upon you; you have won. Therefore, you abide herein forever. They will say, “Praise be to God who fulfilled His promise to us, and made us inherit the earth, enjoying Paradise as we please.” What a beautiful recompense for the workers! You will see the angels floating around the throne, glorifying and praising their Lord. After the equitable judgment is issued to all, it will be proclaimed: “Praise be to God, Lord of the universe.” [39:73-75]

The worshipers of the Most Gracious are those who tread the earth gently, and when the ignorant speak to them, they only utter peace.

In the privacy of the night, they meditate on their Lord, and fall prostrate.

And they say, “Our Lord, spare us the agony of Hell; its retribution is horrendous. It is the worst abode; the worst destiny.”

When they give, they are neither extravagant nor stingy; they give in moderation.

They never implore beside God any other god, nor do they kill anyone—for God has made life sacred—except in the course of justice. Nor do they commit adultery. Those who commit these offenses will have to pay.

Retribution is doubled for them on the Day of Resurrection, and they abide therein humiliated.

Exempted are those who repent, believe, and lead a righteous life. God transforms their sins into credits. God is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

Those who repent and lead a righteous life, God redeems them; a complete redemption.

They do not bear false witness. When they encounter vain talk, they ignore it.

When reminded of their Lord’s revelations, they never react to them as if they were deaf and blind.

And they say, “Our Lord, let our spouses and children be a source of joy for us, and keep us in the forefront of the righteous.”

These are the ones who attain Paradise in return for their steadfastness; they are received therein with joyous greetings and peace.

Eternally they abide therein; what a beautiful destiny; what a beautiful abode.

Say, “You attain value at my Lord only through your worship. But if you disbelieve, you incur the inevitable consequences.” [25:63-77]

Lydia Kelley