1. Emma is struggling to find purpose for her life. She’s content, but she also feels an emptiness because she’s not needed in the way she once was. How do the people in her life convince her otherwise? What does Scripture say about our service to the Lord? (Read Colossians 3:23.)
2. We never learn the details of Joseph’s history with his family. The author purposely left this out so that you could envision people in your community who need help. The bishop does make it plain that Joseph has not been physically abused. What specific things can we do to help those around us who are experiencing a harsh home life?
3. Mary Ann has kept her secret buried in the garden for many years until she felt the time was right to reveal the box. What are some reasons that we keep secrets, and how do we know the right time to reveal them?
4. At the beginning of the story, Emma suspects she is too old for romantic love. Read I Corinthians 13:4–7. What does the Bible say about love?
5. Gardens are a place of healing for many of us. Discuss the gardens in your life (past and present) and why they have been special to you.