Grace’s Journey
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Today, once again, I was awakened by God’s grace and mercies.
He did not have to, but I am here, all praises to our Lord! Did I do something special to see another day? No—it is just another blessing He gives me, and I am extremely thankful. As I sat, filled with wonder at the tender mercies of God, I realized that knowing the One who bestows love without measure is worth sharing. God has been a constant figure in my life as far back as I can remember. As I gathered myself for another epic walk—for those who may not know, I love to take long walks—I felt prompted to smell the roses.
I love to pray and talk with God as I walk.
Walking also helps me to connect with loved ones.
I was compelled by the Holy Spirit to contact my cousin Terry in Canada.
We talked for a long time, catching up on the past and sharing how gracious and merciful God has been. We both agreed that neither of us had been incarcerated, gravely broke, physically homeless, hospitalized, faced with near-death experiences, or dealt with persecution for our faith. These liberties should not be taken for granted.
Praise the Lord! As I continued my journey, I noticed a beautiful rose gently cushioned between thorns and rocks. I bent over and took a photograph.
It was beautiful, vibrant, and radiated hope as it displayed the majesty of God. How could a flower so gorgeous grow in the middle of these choking hazards? I wondered.
Its roots were embedded deeply in the soil.
Anchored by its Creator’s design, nothing could stop its growth.
It trusted something bigger than itself. It reminded me that, as Christians, we can bloom anywhere Jesus plants us. No matter how thorny, dreary, and brutal the path, Jesus is with us. “O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 118:1, KJV). I felt a huge smile spread across my face. My heart grew light and glowed with joy. If Jesus notices the wayside flower and shows it mercy and grace—don’t you think He can do the same for His children? For you and for me? I know He can, for our God abounds in goodness!
Corletta Aretha Barbar
