A new day arrives. The things of the previous day waft through the air, but they no longer have shape. They are vapors to remind us of failures or successes. We smell them and they either rise like delicate flowers or evoke nausea with their pungent aroma. Whichever they are, we own them now. We have brought them into our lives by our actions or associates.
How do we feel about ourselves? Do we see worth when we look into the mirror? Do we smell the beautiful flowers of pleasure or the repugnant scent of failure? What are we doing to ourselves? Do we open a dialogue with our minds, and discover why? Or, do we stand on the ubiquitous crutch of rationalization and denial? Will we be weak and noncommittal, fostering failure by our inactivity?
Each of the petals that make up the rose grew on the plant. Time and nourishment sustained them. They received sunlight and they stretched toward it as the source of life. They had aspirations and hopes.
Yet, some are unhealthy and diseased. Nevertheless, they grew alongside the pure and healthy. In time, however, their disease spread and tainted that which was good, turning it brown and lifeless.
In the garden of our lives, we are all raising flowers. We can either raise an orchid to bless the world, or a weeded mess, disdained by all who see it. It is within our control. We can feed, water and nourish, keeping the disease away. The garden can remain pure.
We can foster health and happiness or allow disease and decay to thrive. We can allow the Light of the Lord to illuminate our lives or give it over to disease and weeds that will wrap them in darkness and despair.
Will our day be one of happiness or decay? Can we get out of the destructive cycle? Will we try? Is liberation from pain and loss, not worth the separation anxiety? Is the wound, not worth the healing?
Come to Christ and let him bathe your new day in peace and comfort. Allow his loving arms to bring you close and keep you safe. Tend to your garden with the tenderness of a mother with her newborn. Be proud of who you are again. Today is the day!
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. ‘Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. ‘For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matthew 11:28-30).
I am offering my sermon notes from this morning for your consideration. They are a continuation of a recent article of mine, that I hope you will read to broaden your understanding.
