Midweek: Grow Where You Are Planted

The following was written by Heidi Gaul and printed in Guideposts' Mornings with Jesus, May/June 2023:

Rejoice always, pray continuously, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 

~ 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

I surveyed the lawn. Dozens of buttery-yellow flowers bore witness to my neglect. Dandelions. Some had already gone to seed, their fluffy white head teasing, as if waiting for the child in me to pull a stem and blow. I fought the temptation, despite a list of wishes I'd love to have.

I know well the trouble that comes when I fixate on desires. One hunger begets another --and another. Sonn, I'd focus on my wants. Shoes calling to me from the shop; dream vacations beckoning. There were many ways I let Jesus know His plan for me wasn't quite enough.

Had I done that too much lately? Had I forgotten the myriad blessings Jesus has already granted me? He has given me a world filled with joy and love and a treasure so vast that no amount of wishing is ever needed. Eternal life. It took root the day I found Him and will culminate when I see His blessed face in heaven.

I looked at the weed bobbing in front of me, its golden head stretched toward heaven. Dandelions grow wherever the wind takes them, thriving and spreading even in the toughest environments. They don't require coddling.

How could I be more like this sturdy weed, especially when I'm drawn by temptation? By thanking Jesus and communing with Him through prayer. By lifting my heady, heart, and hands to Him, spreading His love far and wide, just like dandelion seeds.

~ Heidi Gaul