The Flowers

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. ¹⁰ Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)

Vases of flowers filled my counter at Valentines Day. The bouquets went to friends in my community. 

            Later, I bought more flowers for friends who lived farther away. At the library where I volunteered, two friends received daises and roses. When another lady didn’t show up that day, the gift needed another home. 

            As I carried the yellow mums to the car, I knew who it would be. My friend, Sallie, and I often head to Culvers after working at the library. We had talked to a lady who worked there. 

            A few months earlier when the restaurant was almost empty, we shared our stories. That day she didn’t smile like she normally did. I could tell something was bothering her. 

            “This is the anniversary of when my husband passed away,” she said. I understood and told her of my journey of grief. 

            “I will pray for you,” I said when I gave her a copy of my book about grief. 

            At Christmas, my granddaughter, Molly, and I took her some homemade cookies. Every time I visited, I looked for her. 

            That day, I walked around looking for the elusive worker. She was looking for me to give me my order. 

       “These are for you.” Her smile widened when I handed her the yellow flowers. “Yellow is my favorite color. Thank you so much.”

            While Sallie and I ate, the grateful lady kept stopping to thank me and see if there was anything we needed. 

            As we were eating our custard, she returned. “The flowers are beautiful,” she said. With her hand over her heart, she continued. “But you noticed me. You thought of me. I wasn’t just a lady cleaning tables.”

            Her words touched my heart. I wanted to make her smile with the flowers but the gesture went much deeper. 

            Even though I often talk to people who serve me in the community at stores, doctor offices…, many times I am in a hurry or distracted. They probably feel invisible. 

            Her heartfelt words taught me that small acts of kindness make a difference. To love and serve like Jesus, we need to be aware of those around us. A kind word, smile or vase of flowers might change someone’s day. 

            I had no idea she would be getting my third bouquet that day but the Holy Spirit nudged me to give it to her. I am thankful I listened. 

Loving Father, help us notice those who may be feeling lonely and unappreciated. Guide us and teach us to love others.

Amen

 

An Unconnected Loner

So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

On my daily walk, I noticed a sandhill crane by the sidewalk. The stately gray birds frequent my neighborhood but that one was unusual. Instead of walking the streets with a mate and two youngsters, it was alone.

            Each spring pairs of cranes stroll our streets with two offspring since both parents care for their young. After hatching, the babes resemble fluffy ducklings. Soon their legs lengthen and they become more like their parents in color and size. 

            Parents teach them to root in the grass for food. The foursomes roam and provide joy to residents. Cars and bikes stop to allow them to cross streets or at times, to linger in the roadways. 

            With identical coloring, I couldn’t tell if the solitary crane was a male or female. Every time I saw it, I scanned the area for other companions. Unfortunately, none appeared. The offspring would have matured and taken off. Since sandhill cranes mate for life, its partner must have died. The single bird was totally alone. 

            The bird searched for food but appeared downcast. No sound. No flapping of wings or looking around. Just trying to survive. 

            I can understand the devastation of losing a loving spouse. A partner is gone. Missing. A part of the heart is ripped out.

            But thankfully, we aren’t alone if we believe in Jesus. He holds us tightly and gives peace. Strength comes when we feel we have none. 

            God often sends people into our lives to offer comfort, companionship and friendship. Some become special friends and others may become new partners who all ease the loneliness. 

            The sad bird reminds me of how grateful I am for how God has continued to provide for me. Because of my own grief, I can comfort those who mourn. My faith has grown during my times of solitude. 

Father, you give us what we need during our periods of loneliness, grief and pain. But you don’t leave us alone in our challenges.

Amen

            

Wipe the Slate Clean

This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.

Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.

Lamentations 3:21-23 (NKJV)

Darkness covered the lake like a slate blackboard as snatches of light peeped behind the trees. 

            After dusk, night had overtaken day. But morning wiped the slate clean like an eraser on an old-fashioned blackboard. 

            A pink sunrise signaled dawn. Birds joined together in joyful songs. 

God brings new beginnings every morning. We have choices to make. Rehashing hurts and problems of the past bring unnecessary misery. Looking forward to opportunities and being thankful yields peace and joy.

            Wake up to a thankful heart. Practice gratitude to God for our blessings. Thank and encourage people near and far.  Receive guidance, peace and encouragement from reading the Bible daily. Listen to uplifting music. Use your gifts. Serve others. 

            Everyone faces difficulties but staying focused on God helps us get through our trials. 

Loving Father, like night turning to day, you wipe our slates clean too. Your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for not giving up on us.

Amen