just thinking about these things: my oak tree

As I look outside my window today, I notice my favorite oak tree. At present, it is quiet, reserved, skeletal, still. It has no leaves left on it, for winter's harshness has come and gone. Around it's majestic trunk, the snow is beginning to melt away, giving me a glimpse of the grasses on which my beagle has been known to play. It is now that I realize another season of life has passed, and my oak tree's roots have once again held strong... held true.

Soon the warmth of spring will arrive and every branch of my favorite tree will blossom. The birds will return and take residence while the caterpillars feast upon it's big, beautiful, green leaves. I will once again enjoy the visiting breezes that dance outside my window, and my oak tree, of course, will sway in tandem - keeping in step to the music of nature, all the while lifting it's arms up in praise.

In fact, now that I think about it, my tree has never stopped worshipping God. As long as I've known it, through rain, snow, sleet, hail... through sunshine, moonlight, dusk and dawn... my quiet oak always rejoices with it's limbs outreached toward heaven! Let heaven and nature sing!

This is something to really stop and think about as I pause from the busyness of my work day. Yes, this is is something to consider as I think about how each day I too am to glorify my King. Similar to this tree, I can stand rooted - secure in the foundation and truth of my God's Word. I too, can overcome any trial/any season and be used to nourish, encourage, and support others I encounter. I too can raise my hands to heaven and rejoice and be glad because I know Who made me... I know Who I belong to... I know Who has redeemed my life forevermore! I can sing in spite of thunderstorms and hail. I can echo God's joy in spite of winds that blow apart my leafy coverings of earthly comfort.

Yes, let every season come, precious Savior! For I am assured of your everlasting security and peace. You have renewed my spirit so that I can stand obedient and strong in any storm. I love you, Lord, and am blessed to say I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength! Glory to God for His strength! Glory to God for His joy! Glory to God for He is indeed worthy!!!

THIS IS THE DAY!

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. (Isaiah 55:12)

Shout for joy to God, all the earth! Sing the glory of his name; make his praise glorious. Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies cringe before you. All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing the praises of your name. Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!" (Psalms 66:1-4, 20)XOXOX!

~Victoria