Good morning…
After journaling with God about the reflection question posed in yesterday’s blog post, Monet This Morning, I emailed my church friend to thank her for the permission to share her photos of the stunning gardens of Monet growing just outside of Paris. As we exchanged emails, I was touched by the generosity of the Spirit blowing through our exchange. “Isn’t this just another tiny example of God’s mysterious ways expanding in our everyday lives?” I sat in awe.
“A perfect day for me to see these photos again,” she emailed back right away. “I am in Savannah where we will spread my Dad’s ashes in the river he learned to sail on. He had a long and wonderful life and we are here to celebrate that. I love that your post identifies God as the Great gardener. I hope to be reminded of the lasting beauty captured in these vibrant photos and God’s eternal blessings as we enjoy our sunset boat ride this evening. Glad you could use these so perfectly. Love to all the Allens!”
“Oh gosh,” I marveled. “God’s timing is so perfect. You sent me these photos weeks ago and the Spirit spurred me to share them on this one special day as you celebrate your Dad’s long and wonderful life. The gifts we freely share multiply mysteriously, then return to nurture us in abundant ways. We are wise to raise our sails into this regenerative power each bright day and every dark night. I hope the send off of your Dad’s ashes is filled with love, joy, peace. These are the eternal, seed-bearing gifts of God blossoming among us.”
“Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money! Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!” (Isaiah 55:1, NLT). “It’s all free!” provides gracious winds for our sailing pleasure.
…Sue…
P.S. After reading this morning’s post, my friend wrote: “Beautiful sentiments. Beautiful gardens. Beautiful rivers. We had a perfect sunset ride of remembrance last evening.” God’s gracious timing is absolutely perfect.
