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Flowers will Fade…

Recent rains have really greened up the grass. But the flower beds are pretty much done, except for a few reblooming daylilies. The fading of the flower beds, reminds me that fall is coming.

The change from summer to fall brings to mind the bible verse that contrast grass and flowers with the word of God.

“The grass withers,

the flower fades,

But the word of our God stands forever.”

Isaiah 40:8

God’s word stands forever…not changing or failing to fulfill its purpose, no matter the season we are in. Of course, we experience seasons of life that don’t align with the calendar….seasons of pain, disappoint, and sadness. I find it comforting to know that God’s word is still there like a beacon of hope to guide me through whatever season I find myself in.

Aren’t you?

GETHSEMANE: Stay Awake

It is a small garden, peaceful, quiet oasis… Looks like just the place to get away from the busyness of the city and spend time in prayer.

There we were standing in the garden of Gethsemane.

I could just picture Jesus entering the garden with His disciples.  They had finished the Passover meal and Jesus brought then for a time of prayer.

As I think about Peter, James, and John. They were full from the meal and tired from the day’s activities, even though they likely had good intentions, they did not stay awake.

Jesus was grieved and He had brought these three men to keep watch and pray with Him in this garden.

“Keep watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.”  Matthew 26:41

Their failure didn’t stop Jesus. He encouraged them to keep watching and praying and went away a second time to pray.

“My Father if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Your will be done.” Mathew 26:42

The same a third time…they are sleeping and Jesus is praying. His prayer affirmed His surrendered life and gave Him strength to walk the path that God had planned for HIm.

May we also be reminded to keep alert and ready to live out God’s plan for our lives.

The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. 1 Peter 4:7