Take hope in the knowledge that you are cherished by the One who made you—you are sheltered in the shadow of His wing, close to His heart. It is my prayer that as we get to know one another you, too, will see beyond the veil and will learn to say, “Even so, I walk in the Presence of the Lord”
With joy,
Nan
When Peace Settles Over the Difficult Places
The morning light felt gentle and warm against my troubled spirit. I sat on the porch sipping my coffee, Bible in my lap, birdsong soothing my restless thoughts. I routinely seek refuge on my porch where peace settles over me — where I find contentment that often goes rogue.
“Speak to me through Your Word, Lord. I’m listening,” I prayed.
Was Your Resurrection Morning Like This, Jesus?
Lord, was Your resurrection morning like this? Dawn breaking over a world in chaos, people blinded by corruption and deception? Was there a complacency, a pretense of righteousness among the religious that hardened their hearts and puffed out their chests?
You came Lord Jesus to set the captives free, to open prison doors, and heal the brokenhearted. You came to comfort those who mourn and give them beauty for ashes.
The Garden of Gethsemane, A Place of Crushing
After sharing the Passover meal, Jesus and His disciples walked the dusty roads of Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives, talking as they went — Jesus trying to prepare them for what was ahead. They came to the Brook Kidron, hoisted their robes high above their ankles, and crossed over to the Garden of Gethsemane — the garden of the olive press.
Olive trees filled the orchard, their gnarled limbs weaving a tapestry of grace and beauty. It was a favorite place for Jesus to take His disciples.
The symbolism is great.
Where Are You, Lord, When Tragedy Strikes?
Lord, You are mighty to save, full of power, overflowing with mercy. So, where are You, Lord, when tragedy strikes? Why does it seem as though evil is prevailing?
Please help me understand. Open my eyes, and the eyes of others to recognize Your presence when the unthinkable happens.
Persevere in the Strength of the Lord, Dear One
While sitting beneath the old shade tree, I considered the task at hand, the trials all about me, and the need to persevere in the strength of the Lord. I closed my eyes and entered into the world of daydream.
I imagined myself as a small child wandering along a mountain trail listening to the melody of the birds. Trees swayed to the rhythm of the wind and drank from the stream that ribboned its way through the natural paradise.
Your Eyes Roam the Earth, Lord. Set Your Gaze on Me
Lord, Your eyes roam across the earth seeking those who love You, who need to be strengthened. You never slumber, nor sleep. Please find me in my distress and set Your gaze upon me.
You know those who belong to You. You search my heart and know my anxious thoughts. You know those things that trouble me — indeed, even those things that delight my soul.
Finding Pearls of Great Price Among the Daylilies
Rain showers the night before left the earth moist. The morning sun lit up the tiny droplets of water like a sprinkling of diamond dust scattered across my yard. Taking notice of the brave young daylilies challenging the cold morning, I gasped. A clump of the new sprouts appeared to be laden with pearls.
It was odd.
Come to Me, My Child … I’m Coming, Lord
I love You, Lord. I lift my voice to You in praise, I bow my knees in worship. I hear You calling, “Come to Me, My child,” and my heart responds, “I’m coming, Lord … I’m coming.”
What a privilege it is to be in Your presence. Your love washes over me and I am helped. Thank You for pursuing me in my difficult places. Thank You for Your grace that makes all things new and strengthens me to withstand the works of the enemy.
My Spirit Knows What My Eyes Can’t See: God’s Grace
My morning coffee gurgled and pumped, filling the kitchen with its savory aroma. While I waited, I glanced out the window toward the old apple tree. Perched on its stark branches of winter sat three cardinals, crimson feathers plumped to beat the cold while snow peppered down. I considered God’s grace abounding, falling freely on my difficult places, making everything beautiful in its time.
God’s grace is truly remarkable — amazing many would say. Freely given, blanketing us in His love and care. I wish His grace were as tangible as the snowflakes falling …