Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Flower Power

Good Morning, Dear friends and Prayer Partners! This is the day that the Lord has made and we will rejoice and be glad in it! This is another beautiful, dry day with lots of sunshine.The prediction is for rain this weekend and I really hope this is accurate!

I had a nice quiet day yesterday, folding some of the clothes I sorted out of one closet, reading and doing chores around the house. I went to the park and enjoyed the peace and quiet there for a while. Saw the gopher tortoise in position to head down into his tunnel. It must be quiet and cool deep into his home..the water is very low in the canal with lots of hydrilla, so a good rain would help to bring the water level up. 

 
There must be a beauty berry bush blooming somewhere, because there are purple splashes all over my sidewalk. I am glad I park my car in the garage! 

 
I think the Times carrier likes to sling the newspaper on the porch, because one of my poinsettias got clipped quite badly from the heavy Sunday paper. They rescued the paper and put it in front of the door, but the damage was done. I think the plant will survive, though. I appreciate that they are trying to put it on the porch after numerous calls asking them to. It was on the roof one morning, so they had to give me another one. But, they try, God is good!

From the devotional book ; Quiet Moments with God;  (BTW, Louis and I visited Bouchart Gardens about twenty years ago, and it is beautiful)

We dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves. But they measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves are not wise.
2 Corinthians 10:13 KJV


Butchart Gardens is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Victoria, British Columbia. The elaborate display dates back to 1904, when Jenny Bouchart decided to transform pat of her husband's limestone quarry into a sunken garden. Today it is open all year and includes a botanical array of breathtaking beauty.

When one walks through these delightful grounds, it is impossible to choose the most outstanding exhibition. The plants are obviously healthy and well attended. Each provides colorful blossoms that are distinct, yet make a significant contribution in the overall scheme and design.

Likewise, part of our spiritual growth is to realize our importance in God's garden, especially when we exercise the talents and abilities  He has given. Many feel inferior about their own gifts, and they compare themselves unfavorably with others. And yet God designs different people just as He created various kinds of flowers. The lily and the rose each have their own features. In fact, every blossom has its own unique characteristics. Tulips, lilacs, and hyacinths are not alike, yet each kind of flower adds a particular fragrance and beauty to any arrangement.

The same is true in life. Take a few moments  to make an inventory of your gifts. Then ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. Through His power, you can make a difference in the lives of others as well as your own.

Give what you have to someone. 
It may be better than you dare to think.
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

I always give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers with thanksgiving, joy and love!


Love and hugs, 
Amaryllis