“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” Ecclesiastes 3:1 Click here to read Ezekiel 34:25-27.

We purchased our little home on the hillside in beautiful Buffalo, MO, 25 years ago. I continually praise my husband’s wisdom and the Lord’s direction for this decision as I navigate life as a single for the first time in sixty-plus years.

From day one, it was heaven on earth for this country girl. I tended my flowers, planted shrubs, and eagerly tromped the hillsides picking four-leaf clover. Often I hiked down the hill, across the creek, and marched around an empty field for my daily exercise.

Colorful irises, lilies, succulents, and other perennials had donned their best attire throughout the spring and summer on Adams’ Acres.  And time passed. This year as weeds began to take over the flowerbeds gracing my front entry, I vowed once more to yank them out before they got out of hand.

Seriously? I can’t reach over to tie my shoes!

Days turned into weeks and soon the front porch was edged in ugly. Could someone please explain why weeds always flourish while flowers succumb to the elements?

Then, as if by magic, a beautiful vine adorned with huge leaves and vibrant yellow blooms quickly took over the entire bed. The great cover-up began. As if on a mission, the vines stayed within the bed ignoring the banister, steps, and walkway. And I was pleased – no weeding for me.

The truth of the matter?  This plant is truly magnificent, but it covers a bed of neglect and waste. Soon, this foliage will wither and die revealing a bed in worse condition than in the beginning.

I have cause to pause and look at myself. As I fluff my hair and put on my happy face and best attire to go out into the world, what might I be covering up? Am I prayed up; cleaned up inside by the Holy Spirit? Am I hiding anger, bitterness, selfishness, bad attitude, etc.? Did I tidy up to impress others or to please and honor my Lord and Savior?

Do I want the world to see what is hidden inside? Is God happy with my heart condition, or do I need to spend more time with Him, in His cleansing Word?

As I begin tomorrow (December 1) reading a chapter of Luke each day, I am asking God to search my heart. I need a cleansing, a refilling, a refueling! I want my life to count for the One who gave His all for me. How about you?

Let me hear from you,   

Hugs,

Susie