Consider the Lillies

(and the feijoas)

 

How often do we grasp tightly to what we have out of fear of what we may not have when our current supply is used?

I was sitting in the sun outside a couple of days ago; we'd just had a wee rock'n'roll earthquake that seemed to last for several minutes (no damage to life or property).  As I settled back into enjoying the moment, a light breeze blowing, birds tweeting nearby, a neighbour obliviously mowing a lawn, a bee flew past heading to a magnolia flower just beyond my shoulder.  Staying perfectly still, I watched it negotiate it's way into the petal then expertly do it's thing, busily working away before departing with a decent load of pollen strapped to it's legs.

 

It is only a few short years since we had nothing at all in our pantry.... in fact, only three years have passed since we were taken to the end of ourselves; our jobs were gone, finances completely exhausted with access to any credit permanently removed, and pride and self-sufficiency were given a thorough work-over on the anvil as we were hammered to a new depth of trusting while patiently waiting for Father's will to be revealed and obeyed. 

Looking in our pantry today, I'm astounded at the abundance contained within, gratitude and thankfulness overflowing.  However,  almost as rapidly a sense of sadness crept over me as I recalled the extent of trust we chose to tenaciously exercise often moment by moment, and yet the experience drew us in to closer total dependence on Father, to trusting and encouraging each other as we frequently sat hand in hand waiting for Him to provide.  

I suddenly had a yearning for just a dusting of those days to return to the present.  Such precious intimacy in relationship was established in the Three Strand Cord, such great joy, a simplistic, uncluttered state of being, and wholly consuming Peace beyond all understanding continually flowing through our veins are our daily witness. 

Nothing has been lost, everything has been gained.

Sit with the Creator awhile this day and let Him show you marvellous wonders.  They exist - all around you. 

Allow yourself ample time to be immersed in His Love.

You truly are the apple of His eye.

Cease striving to keep your pantry full. 

It already is.