Some more summer memories for you:
What a shock! My last serious check on the garden for grapes occurred weeks ago when their potential juicy orbs looked like tiny bumps on the vine. Now, at harvest time, my husband’s alert brings me to the discovery of generous hanging clusters of green and purple fruit.
How did this development take place without my involvement? While I kept busy inside the house or out and about, my husband’s watering and the sun’s beams brought about these unexpected blessings. This is like many of the benefits I accept, thanklessly in my life.
Every night without fail, I’m invited to attend the brilliant splendor of God’s sunset free of charge. If I happen to stroll by the front door, I may appreciate the artistry. Whether I’m present or not, however, the goodnight wishes steadily play out.
As I look up the daily weather forecast on my cell phone, I take little thought of the delight from bright blue skies, warm breezes, and sunshine. Or perhaps the rain is trickling down on my garden, watering the dry earth. Seasons come and go without much notice from me.
Oh, it snowed. That’s nice. It’ll probably melt soon. Do I observe the brilliant sparkle of a thousand points of light as the sun glints against the mirror-surfaces of the snow mounds? How about the silhouette of the white snow against the dark tree branches? The beauty of this scenery is lost on me as I read my magazine tucked in my easy chair inside, without looking out the window.
How many treasures do I miss while focused on something inconsequential? These are unearned blessings I take for granted as my due as one of God’s creatures.
The joy of family passes me by while arranging a babysitting schedule with my son. The grandchildren grow quickly becoming more independent. Requests to make banana bread will soon end as peers grow more central to their lives. Have I waited too long?
I need to have more of an awareness of present joys. My appreciation should increase for the everyday small perks God gives me as I saunter through my time on earth.
Maybe that’s why the oldest among us who still think clearly truly get it. Their unhurried schedules allow time to observe, to reflect, to share with those more involved in the rat race. Their wisdom can help the rest of us to consider these unexpected blessings all around us with a profound sense of gratitude and joy.
Thank you, Lord, for your multitude of blessings, like these tasty grapes you generously provided.
Dianna
Sharing the Fruit of Maturity
