In 1912, songwriter C. Austin Miles penned what would eventually become known (in Pitman!) as “the Pitman Anthem.” Miles lived in Pitman, and it is believed that he wrote this famous hymn during his time in our town (although that point is debatable).
But what is for sure is that the hymn “In the Garden” speaks of an enduring relationship between God and His children.
The pandemic forced us to find new ways of community while maintaining physical distance from each other. During this time, we developed an agility with technology that allowed us to meet virtually. In June of 2021, PUMC’er Bob Bazzel and his daughter Abigail Marmelstein used their musical and computer skills to assemble a virtual choir to sing “In the Garden.” About 14 people recorded their voices while singing along with an instrumental rendition. The resulting audio files were merged together and graphic slides were created. The result is the below video rendition of “Pitman’s In The Garden.”
Mary’s Garden
In this song, C. Austin Miles depicts the experience of Mary Magdalene on the first Easter morning as she goes to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. She goes in fear, confusion, and in mourning. As she arrives, she sees that the big stone has been rolled away from the tomb’s entrance. Angels are there to explain. Then, she hears what she supposes to be the gardener behind her. She asks the gardener where the body has been taken, but the “gardener” simply speaks her name: “Mary…” 
With the mention of her name, Mary’s fears are turned to love and wonder. Mary realizes that Jesus is with her. In the quiet of that garden, her relationship with God bursts into her conscious and she can think of nothing else. “Mary…“
The account is told in John 20:10-16 (and depicted on the “Resurrection Window” which is at the front of our sanctuary).
Other Gardens
“Mary…” Her whole attitude and demeanor was transformed simply by hearing the Lord speak her name. In the quiet morning of a garden, near an empty tomb, she felt the comforting presence of God. Throughout scripture, we see examples of God turning seemingly ordinary moments into uplifting encounters with Himself.
Where’s YOUR Garden?
Where are YOUR quiet and ordinary moments? Samuel reminded the people that “useless idols can do no good” and he challenged the people to “consider what great things God has done for you.” (1 Samuel 12:21-24). It’s so easy to get caught up in our “to-do” lists and to get wrapped up in the noise that comes when we focus on satisfying our desires. We so easily chase after “idols” and we find it hard to slow down to listen for the quiet voice of God… “Mary…”
To hear that re-assuring and powerful voice of God, find a quiet place. It might be on a beach or in a fishing boat. It might be during or a walk around your neighborhood, or a drive through the countryside. It might be in the quiet morning moments during prayer or scripture reading, or it might be in the sanctuary surrounded by your church family.
C. Austin Miles- and Mary- found that quiet moment in an empty garden. They captured that recharging experience where “He walks with me and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own…”
Where’s YOUR garden???
