Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters… (Isaiah 55:1)
This morning I sat on my porch listening to the trickling water fountain that spills into our pond. Birds welcomed the new day with delight. A slight breeze moved through the trees, just enough to lightly brush across the birch leaves. It was a lovely moment. All the elements of nature worked together in harmony, but the water was definitely the focal point.
Whether it’s a fountain, waterfall, ocean waves, or even rain for that matter, something about the sound of water always makes me feel God’s presence.
In Revelation 1, John is given a glimpse of heaven. He saw someone “like the son of man” dressed in a robe. His head and hair were white like wool…and his eyes were like blazing fire…his voice was like the sound of rushing waters…”
Not only does his voice sound like rushing waters, Jesus told the woman at the well, “Whoever drinks the water I give will never be thirsty again. Indeed, the water I give will become a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
Water gives life. Without it, all living things would die. God's very words give life too. I don’t know about you, but I want that refreshment. I want to drink it in every day.
God told Isaiah, “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth, making it bud and flourish… so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it." (Isaiah 55:10-11)
Lord, help me meditate on your life-giving word today. Let it soak into my soul so that I may grow. Amen
"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." (Colossians 3:12)
It was one of those lazy spring days when the smell of cut grass and fresh blossoms hit you the minute you walk outside.
During my lunch hour at work, I decided to sit in my car to eat my lunch. I was thoroughly enjoying my turkey sandwich, listening to the radio, of course with the window down. I looked down and saw a squirrel in the parking lot. Perched on his hind legs, he held his front paws together as if he were praying.
“Hi little fellow. What are you doing?” He just stood there, gazing at me with longing eyes.
I don’t usually feed stray critters… but that day I was in a rather generous mood. Before I could stop myself, I reached down and tore off a corner of my crust and tossed it out the window. My little friend picked it up and munched it in ecstasy. I have to admit, it was a squirrel’s perfect feast (whole-wheat bread with nuts and grain)
He looked so happy eating his food that I’d almost forgotten about my own. Together, we ate our lunches like old friends. When he was finished, I could swear that he smiled at me.
“You’re welcome,” I said with grin.
It wasn’t much of a sacrifice on my part, but that little crust of bread seemed to make his day. I thought about how truly blessed I am. Are there other simple things I can share with others that I’m overlooking?
Is there someone who could use a call? Can I do a quick errand? Lighten someone's workload? Send a cheerful card? It may not be much, but it could make a big difference to someone else.
Loving Father, show me today if there is someone you want me to reach out to and help. Give me your kindness, thoughtfulness and patience. Amen.
