SHINE

SHINE

                    "DEEP IN THEIR ROOTS, ALL FLOWERS KEEP THEIR LIGHT."
                                                                             Theodore Roethke

Roots always extend underground.  Sometimes the only way we know one of these roots exist is when we see what is growing from it. The root is what absorbs the nutrients and the water needed for growth.  Sun shines from above and is taken in and used by the root somehow.  Even in the darkness of night, the flower continues to blossom and grow as it waits for new light. 

Have you ever wondered why God created such beauty for us to behold? I know He did it partially for our pleasure and joy.  I never get tired of looking at the intricacies of nature. It's like sweetness to the eye, and  a smile from heaven! But could there also be messages in how to live within the complexities of God's creation?  I believe so.  Jesus often used Word pictures to teach in the Bible.

I ask myself where my roots lie.  What am I rooted in?  What shows on the outside is a product of what we are rooted in.  Our past is part of us.  No matter what was in our past, we can look back and see how it shaped us and grew us---we can see how God used every bit of it in some way to draw us closer to Him---to draw us into His light.  Being rooted in truth---absorbing the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ---has resulted in an ability to grow and shine in ways I never before knew.  The Light changes things deep within.  Instead of just existing, I can see things from new perspectives.  If I stay closely rooted and steeped in His light, His love shines through---and even in the dark of night, that Light is held in my heart, and I can continue to shine as I await new Light. 

Winter strips this area of the world from visible signs of growth, but deep down, the roots continue to flourish.  I even think that sometimes the challenge of wind and winter causes the roots to even become stronger.  The light is still present in the winter, and although we may not see bright and beautiful blossoms, we know that the light is stored down deep.  And we know that the blossoms are coming.

In times of sorrow and grief.  In times of strain and uncertainty---the winters of life---we can be sure that His Light still shines, and we can be sure that as our roots become stronger in Him, the blossoms are on their way.  We can SHINE!

The Lord Bless you and Keep you; the Lord make His face SHINE upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you Peace.  Numbers 6:24-26