In the spring trees bring hope as their new growth sings. Lush greenery offers peace in the summer. In the fall, their colorful collages inspires creativity. And in their emptiness, tree grace the winter with silent elegance. (Alicia Britt Chole from her book Anonymous)
More from Alicia.
In the winter, are the trees bare? Yes
In the winter, are the trees barren? No
Life still is:
The trees in the pictures has seen many seasons of spring, summer, fall and winter. Every season drives it roots deeper and deeper as it abides in the creation of God's rich earth, bask in His sunshine and drinks from His rain Through the years I have not enjoyed the winter seasons as much as the other three because I failed to recognize it as a "rest time."
Alicia has this to say about the seasons. Such is the rhythm of spiritual life: new growth, fruitfulness, transition, rest...new growth, fruitfulness, transition, rest. Abundance may makes us feel productive, but perhaps emptiness has greater power to strengthen our souls.
In spiritual winters, our fullness is thinned so that, undistracted by our gifting's, we can focus upon our character. In absence of anything to measure, we are left with nothing to stare at except our foundation.
We begin to examine the motivations that supports our deeds, the attitudes that influence our words, the dead wood otherwise hidden beneath our busyness. Then a life changing transition occurs as we move from resistance through repentance to the place of rest. With gratitude, we simple abide.
What season do you find yourself in right now?
In between both. I believe that God tills and shakes our soil to help us choose to either fall or just have our roots grow deeper. I see God pruning us no matter what season. And I thank Him for doing so. You said it right:
ReplyDeleteIn spiritual winters, our fullness is thinned so that, undistracted by our gifting's, we can focus upon our character.
May our roots grow even deeper in His ground of love and grace.
I am in a season of rest right now. Somehow, it is hard just resting and waiting, but I know it is what I most need. Thanks for the thoughtful post.
ReplyDeleteTimely post. I struggle to find rest. Going is easier than sitting still. I've run so often when our Father called me to stillness; you think it would be part of my nature by now, but alas once a donkey always a donkey... but a donkey with stillness being learned. I just need to be reminded now and again. Thanks, sister. I'm praying for you and your family today.
ReplyDeleteRosel, just hopped over to your sight and read your encouraging post. Endurance if exactly what I needed to read about this morning.
ReplyDeleteYou are so right in ever season He does shake our soul. Blessings
Rehoboth, you are so right, I think too resting is the hardest since it usually comes after such active seasons. You are a wise hearted woman so I know your rest will not be a waste...and we will read the results of it on your blog. Blessings
ReplyDeleteI so identify Floyd...I am a Martha but an older Martha now. Stillness is extremely hard because we often associated it with not doing. We are pretty active still but my soul is still...ready to receive more. My heart is tuned into Him waiting for Him to drive the truths I already know deep into my soul. You may always be active but your post speak of a man who listen deeply to the things of God. I know the Word talks about finishing race well, but I have learned there walking races...my sprinting days are over. Knowing I will finish according to His number helps me to rest. Now it, get ready, get set, walk. See you at the finish brother.
ReplyDelete"In spiritual winters, our fullness is thinned so that, undistracted by our gifting's, we can focus upon our character. In absence of anything to measure, we are left with nothing to stare at except our foundation."
ReplyDeleteThat is so powerful! Thank you for sharing, I'm blessed to read that today- it encourages me as I'm feeling some winter seep into my soul.
TC, I so appreciate your honest comments. Blessings
ReplyDeleteThe trees are bare but life still is. I love that!!!!! Such hope for today. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteBarbara, Thank God life is in Christ not the seasons of our life. Blessings
ReplyDeleteI think I'm in the season of spring right now. After going through some winter times last year, this year has been one of new growth, even though some of that is painful. Thanks for this, Betty.
ReplyDeleteIt's those winter season that make us appreciate new growth...blessings my sister.
ReplyDeleteThis is beautiful. Our pastor just completed a sermon series on "Rooted." If we are rooted in Him, we can withstand the trials of any season.
ReplyDeleteGod bless,
Laurie
Amen Laurie...amen. Thanks for stopping by.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing at "Tell Me a Story." I like what you are saying about the trees are full of life no matter which season they find themselves in.
ReplyDeleteYes, we too go through seasons in life, but we can find opportunities to show love, and perhaps to encourage someone.