Meditation

Read Song of Songs 2:10-13

Forget former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.—Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV)

One spring day many years ago, I went to church to have a talk with Jesus. Getting out of my car, I passed a flower bed overcome with weeds. This sight made me angry. I did a lot of work for my church, and I couldn’t believe that others would ignore the weeds and just assume that I would take care of them.

I went into the building and got sidetracked. As I came out, I passed the weeds and got angry again. This reminded me of the whole purpose of my visit. I had forgotten to talk with Jesus! Going back in, I spent time with my Lord at the altar. Coming back out, I no longer noticed the weeds but the beautiful purple violets.

This made me think about how many times I overlook God’s handiwork. It happens so easily. Spending time with God despite my anger and troubles reminded me of how Jesus is like the spring. Just as we see flowers and trees and other vegetation flourishing in the sunlight, our relationship with Jesus can help us to bloom. When we are fed by him, the world looks more beautiful.

Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, open up our eyes and hearts to the newness we can experience as we walk with you. Amen.

Thought for the day: When I get frustrated by the weeds of life, I will look for God’s flowers.

—Jerrie Green, West Virginia