Brother Lawrence was converted at the age of eighteen. He recalls, during that first year after coming to God, seeing a tree in winter stripped of its leaves. He recognized that in a little while leaves would appear, then flowers and finally fruit. God provides all of that. The tree does nothing but exist as a tree. From its very nature comes the leaves that provide it’s nourishment, flowers that attract the insects which propagate it and finally fruit from which other trees are produced.
Later in life when injured in battle and suffering a chronic painful condition, Brother Lawrence remembered God as provider. Rather than consider himself a victim; he became, even in his injured condition, a servant to others.
What excuses prevent us from living the life God calls us to? Are we too busy making a living or raising our kids, or building up wealth? God provides all that we need to do all that we are called to do. He produces the fruit; it is ours to be aware of His presence and bounty and to grow where we are planted.
I remember some years ago we shared our home overnight with two missionaries from California. They marveled at how green our area was. They talked of the many shades of green which God provides for our enjoyment. Having lived ourselves in California for several years, we were familiar with how brown and barren it can be much of the year. But we had become so accustomed to the beauty that surrounds us that we had lost that sense of wonder that it should produce.
God conveys His presence through the beauty of His creation. Spend some time today considering the beauty of His creation and thank Him for these reminders of His love and omnipresence.
Be blessed.
Nick
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