Trees encircle our property. Thirty-five years ago we
decided to deny the name this place was blessed with centuries ago –
Barehillock – and plant trees. They have grown up and provide shade and homes
for the birds (as well as wild cherries in season). One of them, the poplar,
grew too fast and was therefore weak and a danger, so this year it has come
down, sadly. We’ll keep warm as we burn it in a few years.
The sun is out and it promises to be another good day, but
when I glanced out at the veggie patch just now I was surprised at how much
shade blankets it. Shade from some of those trees we so lovingly planted.
We wanted the shelter and protection of the trees, but some
have grown so voluptuously that parts of the garden don’t get the warming rays
of the sun.
We like to be sheltered and protected. We like our comfort
zones. They are safe. Jesus calls us out of those comfort zones and into risky
living for him. He calls us to step out of the shade and as we do, timidly
perhaps, we discover we are more in the Son than we ever were before.
I am writing this in faith. This is what I’ve been taught at
Cherish conference last weekend and it is challenging me to live an edgier life
for Jesus, to get out there and feed, clothe, visit, rescue...
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