I am alone-a state of being that is a rare experience for me. Today I am by myself at the most beautiful place in Pennsylvania-Longwood Gardens. A teal lawn chair invites me to recline and absorb the serene atmosphere. The sound of gushing fountains and reflection of dark green trees off the peaceful pond invite the weary traveler to pause and ponder.
While sitting by the pond, I look upon the trees. Evergreens and deciduous species huddle close together as if posing for a family portrait. If the trees could talk, what would they say?
Looking upon their stately frame, I think about their life. Trees do not labor to impress, they simply do what they were designed to do.
Push their roots deep into the soil
Absorb nutrients
Lift their branches to the sunlight
Grow
Blossom
Bear fruit
Sway with the wind
Let go of dead leaves
Rest during the dark days of winter
Sprout again in spring
Today I will listen to the trees and . . .
Push my roots deep into God’s Word
Absorb His truth about my identity in Christ
Lift my arms in praise of His radiant majesty
Grow in faith trusting that God is at work in my life
Blossom with kindness as I serve
Bear the fruit of the Spirit as I abide in Christ the vine
Sway with flexibility when the winds of change blow my way
Let go of behaviors that are not helpful
Rest in God’s faithfulness during the dark days of grief and pain, confident that the season of renewal will sprout in me once more.
“They will be like a tree planted by the water
that sends out its roots by the stream.
It does not fear when heat comes;
its leaves are always green.
It has no worries in a year of drought
and never fails to bear fruit” (Jer. 17:8 NIV)
Prayer
Father God,
There are many days that I feel like a lame Charley Brown Christmas tree. But my feelings do not have the final say in who I am. You say that I am strong even when I feel weak. You say I am brave even when I feel afraid. You say I am loved even when I feel unloveable. On those difficult days when I feel defeated, help me to abide in Your mighty strength and focus on the truth of who I am in Christ.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen
Shout-out to my editor, Tammy. If you noticed any grammatical errors this week it is because she is on vacation. Thank you Tammy for your willingness to read over my stories and make necessary corrections. You are a dear friend and I so appreciate your help. Hope you have a refreshing break!
Update on health
Last night I slept for over three hours with my CPAP machine. That is twice as much as I usually do. Thank you for your prayers.
healinghope4women 