Yesterday I was doing some weeding in my garden and there, once again, I came upon my archenemy -- a prolific weed against which I wage a war. Sprouting tendrils from the mother plant, it creeps its way along the ground’s surface in search of one of my pretty blossoms and blooms. Spying its prey, it coils itself around my dainty bloom, plants a root system nearby, and attempts to suck the life out of my lovely flower. Also, click here for all information related to flowers.“Aha, “ I said. “We meet again!” And mustering up energy and strength, I waged a fierce battle, grabbed it by its vine and yanked it out, triumphant for the moment!
But before I too quickly raised a toast to victory, I knew the war had not been won. The weed would return. Yes, it would come back again, impervious to my latest win. In this war, vigilance was required, steadfastness of heart, fortitude and resolve, humility and perseverance. These would hold me firm in my fight, and help me sustain the zeal and vigor that I need.
Yes, with the help of grace, the battle will be won – maybe not in time, perhaps only in eternity, when I see Jesus face to face, and all is made new (Rev. 21:5).
A few days ago a member of my high school graduating class passed away. Bonnie had always been the type of person who was on the periphery of events, parties, dances, and all of the social things that make up a high school experience. In many ways, she was challenged – not intellectually but in other ways that can make teenage years tough.
Her last days sound as if they were as challenging as those earlier days. And she left the world seemingly bereft of the parents whom she buried and any close personal friends. Fortunately, another classmate was made aware of her death through a professional acquaintance. He notified the rest of us.
