by Victoria Heinecke

God’s Word nourishes us in every season.

You can listen to today’s devotion by clicking on this SoundCloud link. 

“The Lord upholds all who are falling
    and raises up all who are bowed down.
The eyes of all look to you,
    and you give them their food in due season.”
Psalm 145:14-15 English Standard Version (ESV)

The tree in the parking lot at work appears to be dead. Most of its branches are white, and against the dark blue Colorado sky they form a lacy web-like pattern.

In Colorado, we have been in the midst of a warm summer with an unusual amount of rain. This tree’s withered condition stands out amid the lush green hills surrounding our home.

Certainly, the tree is dead and should be removed?

Upon a second look, there, in the middle of the dry branches, are some tender green twigs. The tree is struggling to survive, and there is evidence of life in those small green sprigs.

Perhaps, with some attention and a little fertilizer, this tree may re-grow and be covered in green branches and leaves?

Often we, in our faith walk, go through seasons where we feel withered. Our faith can feel as small as a couple of leaves on a dying tree. We are weary and worn by the grind of daily life.

The book of Psalms is a great source of comfort and encouragement. Reading Psalms reveals the personal and intimate side of God. He loves you so much and wants an open and active relationship with you. He has given us 150 poems that cover the spectrum of feelings. Whatever season your life is sojourning, there are Psalms for that seaon. God understands us, no matter what we’re going through.

A few minutes a day in God’s Word may be the attention our souls need to blossom again.

“The Lord is near to all who call on him,
    to all who call on him in truth.
He fulfills the desire of those who fear him;
    he also hears their cry and saves them.”
Psalm 145:18-19 English Standard Version (ESV)

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado