Each day I drive by these botanical symbols of life in the springtime desert. The ocotillo dressed in statuesque elegance with its plumes of red flowers sways in front of the Sonoran Desert hallmark, the giant Saguaro. I drink in this fleeting beauty which will fade as spring turns up its heat and all that will be left are the spiny thorns which make these sentinels unapproachable. Still I marvel at God’s artistic majesty to create striking beauty in a barren land.

I am much like those desert plants. My inward beauty fades quickly as the heat of life beats down on me. Existing in a barrenness of soul where the ground is parched, I shoot out my spines warding off anyone who dares come to close or may inflict injury on my already bruised soul.

Languishing in this barren land, the Lord assures me that just as the desert plants march through the seasons and remain strong, He will meet me each morning with mercies and strength to face the heat that beats against my soul that day.

“See, O Lord, how distressed I am! I am in torment within, and in my heart I am disturbed for I have been most rebellious…” Lamentations 1:20 NIV

But the good news is just a day, or a season away, or a couple of chapters away.

“Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 2:21-23 NIV

 

Just as the desert flowers fade on one plant, they blossom on another until the springtime colors rest for another year; so will my barrenness fade in the shade of the Lord’s daily compassions until my inward beauty will shine once again.

Last week I invited friends to stop by and leave a comment for a chance to win Jennifer Dukes Lee’s new book, “Love Idol.” I happy to announce we have TWO winners: Wanda from the Watered Soul and Karen Zema. Congratulations, ladies!

If you have not had a chance to read this life-changing book that takes you from searching for approval in every man-invented way to finding it at the feet of Jesus, I highly recommend you order the book online or call your nearest Christian bookstore to see if they have it in stock. Christian Booksellers Discount and Amazon are sold out until they receive more inventory!!! Givington’s at www.givingtons.com offers you the opportunity to order the book and benefit your favorite charity. Also check Barnes and Noble at
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-idol-jennifer-dukes-lee/1116799128?ean=9781414380735

Finding gratitude in the desert:

• Thank You, Lord, for the strength to go to church today
• Thank You for beautiful worship and especially for Pastor Miller’s rendition of John the apostle’s presentation in the Upper Room after Christ ascended into heaven
• Thank You for Communion, the sharing of Your Spirit within me.
• Thank You for words of wisdom from friends at church
• Thank You for the festive colors waving in the breeze as we celebrated Mission Sunday
• For projects getting completed around the house
• For oldest’s temporary job
• For a published devotional
• For homemade chocolate chip cookies for the bake sale at church
• For faithful friends who lift us up in prayer

Linking with Multitudes Monday,  Monday Musings, and The Beauty in His Grip

 From My Heart To Yours,