They were ordinary walnuts laying on the ground, until my Dad picked them up. He cracked them open, cleaned out the insides {probably enjoying the snack} then glued the two halves back together with a piper cleaner hook- attached to the end. A coat of gold paint later, and he presented them to the family as Christmas Tree ordainments. One of them has hung on my tree for decades and this year I gave my other special "nut" to my son for his tree.
Paul calls Christians, "holy" in this opening of his letter to the Church. Holy means to be chosen or set apart for a special purpose. Just like my Dad's walnuts, we have been picked by God to proclaim his love and glory to the world... even if we still look a little nutty! Can you spot the "nut"? "Grace and Peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
To all of you that follow my Roaming Retired Reverend Blog, thank you for participating in my ramblings this past year and a half. You have listened and watched my reflections both in words and in digital pixels, and I thank you!
It is now three days away from Christmas and it is 85 degrees outside my door! Yes I am still adjusting to living in Florida! But the joy of faith, family and ministry fill my heart! May you know that same joy that only Jesus Christ can bring to our souls.
I am taking a break not only from Facebook but also my blog... come January 1st I will be back to daily posts on both. I start with thoughts around the New Testament book of Ephesians. Oh the challenge to find photos that fit with the lofty themes of this glorious Word of God!
Here is the family that gives me so much JOY!
I wonder where these wheels have traveled over the years? ...hitched to a team of horses... carrying people to church, the local store or maybe taking a couple on a date? Where are you headed in the last days of this year?
This Pennsylvania winter scene, reminds me of God's rhythm of life. There are times when life seems cold, discarded, useless... yes dead... But look closer - in the midst of ice and deadness there ARE shoots waiting for just the right time to burst with new life! Patience my dear friends, God is not through with us! He is just beginning ...
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