July 9th

July 9th

Read: 1 Peter 1:8-9 and 1 Peter 4:4, 10-11; 2 Cor. 3:18

Summer mornings in The Adirondack Mountains when I was a child were filled with the impressions of beauty and wildlife and fun. These impressions must have been stored away at the time, for I do not recall noting them at all … the moisture-covered leas meant soaking shoes and stockings. Sunrise meant it was time for Uncle Howard to toss a firecracker near our window to wake my sister, our cousin, and me for breakfast. I know that one stag I saw was foraging in Aunt Marjory’s garden. The pictures were left with me, however, and are valid.

I also have impressions of the glory of God, although I have seen Him only through His Word and His Spirit’s work in me. Our perceptions must be sharper than we realize … both physical and spiritual. They are valid even when eyes do not behold or the mind does not consciously note them.
It was the joy set before Him which kept Jesus on the path of obedience. It is my expectation of glory which keeps me there too.

ADIRONDACK MORNINGS

Have you beheld earth’s shrouding mist Slow-lifting in the morn,
Becoming wispy in the trees, Its fabric rent and torn?
And have you heard a loon’s sad cry From forest pond forlorn
And then felt lonesome while you watched For sunbeams to be born?

Have you beheld a moving shape Beginning to emerge,
A grazing stag with antlered head Upon the forest verge?
And have you felt the gentle tug Of some primeval urge
That holds you still at full alert While time and senses merge?

White morning mists and leaf-paved paths Beneath the towering trees
Dark mossy rocks, soft dew-hung webs A flutter in the breeze.
And cloven hoofprints on the sward Of moisture-covered leas
Ah, one might fill a treasure chest With memories such as these….

Prayer: Dear God, thank You for how You teach me of Your glory. Thank You for giving us remembrance of it even when we do not physically behold it. What an encouragement it is to maintain our walk.