Enjoying my moments in the garden today. Hoping you can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation on this fine Monday morning.
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In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered.
Psalm 90:6 – NIV
I have always loved flowers. However, in the demanding days of work and motherhood, perennials that required little effort were the only flowers that flourished in my yard. One of the things I have most enjoyed about retirement is the opportunity to play in my plants.
My front porch and back patio area are covered in a variety of annuals. A focal point in my sunny outdoor sitting area is my Hibiscus plants. This year, I splurged and bought four Hibiscus, one pink, two yellow, and one multicolored variety with a mix of pink, coral and yellow blooms. These plants are amazing, their blooms so colorful against their dark green foliage.
Every morning, I scurry to the garden to see how many Hibiscus blooms await me there. Each plant blooms differently. One may be full of blooms, while another may display only one or two flowers. Every day is unique, sparking a delightful sense of anticipation, as I wonder what will bloom today.
Hibiscus are unique in that their brilliant blooms only last for one day. You can see the tiny buds form amidst their surrounding leaves. Day after day, the buds grow slowly, taking their time, choosing their moment of debut with care. Their time of preparation culminates in the birth of a beautiful bloom that emerges with the first rays of sunlight, opening fully as the morning proceeds.
What a treat those bright blooms are, and yet, they only last for a day. I have been known to make several trips to the garden on a given day just to see the blooms once more, knowing they will be gone tomorrow. I have to make time to see them. There are no do-overs, no second chances. I get one day, one opportunity to enjoy their splendor and then the moment is gone forever.
In our hectic, fast-paced lives, we spend our days doing much, but seeing little. Our agendas are so full, our minds so cluttered. What are we missing? What blessings are before us right now? What are we failing to notice as we rush past, anxious and unaware?
Every day, God places opportunities in our paths. There are opportunities to offer a smile, a kind word, a warm hug. There are blessings to be savored, and good deeds to be done. We are given the chance to say “I love you.” There is a sunrise and a sunset. There is a beautiful flower just waiting to be noticed.
But these moments pass. There is no certainty of their availability tomorrow. There is only today, this time, this moment. There are no do-overs, no second chances.
Friends, let us make the most of this day, seeing its blessings fully, breathing in its delights. May we step out with renewed fervor to do the good things God has set before us. May we bloom brightly and share the love of God with all those we meet along the way. Blessings to you this day!
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The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.
Psalm 65:8 – NIV
PRAYER
O God of Beauty and Splendor, O God of Majesty and Delight, we praise You for the morning, for the gift of a new day. Let us not waste it, but see the delights awaiting us with fresh eyes and right spirits. Help us to do the good works You have in store for us. Equip us to lighten our neighbor’s load, to share a smile, to offer encouragement. Thank You, Lord, for all your blessings and for loving us beyond measure.
Faith Beyond Sight 