Freshly encouraged by Sunday’s message I went hunting for an oak tree to capture in my mind’s eye. Oaks are not too common here but up the hill, at the park we dubbed ‘The Green Field’ early on, stands a row of mighty oaks. They furnish the most darling acorns in late fall.*
But for now they are carpeting the green with tawny oak leaves…
The message was taken from Isaiah 61 describing the work of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus said He came to bring good news to the afflicted,
bind up the broken-hearted,
proclaim liberty to the captives and the opening of the prison to those who are bound.
He came to proclaim God’s favor,
to comfort those who mourn….giving the oil of gladness instead,
and to exchange the garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness.
Wow! And what’s the end in view?
That the recipients of His many-faceted mercies ‘may be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified!’ Amazing! That’s us when Jesus has done His work in our lives! Then we will be able to extend His Kingdom to others (check out the rest of Isaiah 61) For a reminder of His good heart toward me, I went on a photo hunt.
On the way up the block I found this fledgling–a reminder that growing up is a process. I’ve been watching it gain ground over the years, slowly but surely.
Up at The Green Field they are another story–stalwart giants.
I got to be a ‘tree’ once in a 2nd grade play–the only role for a shy little girl I guess. So much better to be called an ‘oak of righteousness’–mighty by His power. I like that!
“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD;
My soul shall exult in my God,
For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation;
He has covered me with the robe of righteousness.”
Isaiah 61:10
–LS
P.S. Darling acorns are compliments of H.M.Barnes
