Graze: To feed on growing grasses.



The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul.

-Ps. 23:1-6

Growing up on a farm, I used to watch the cows, sheep & horses graze in the pasture. Each morning we would open the gate to the barnyard and they knew there was freedom from that small pen they were in. They also knew there was nice green grass beyond the barnyard. Once the gate was open, look out because those animals wanted to get where the tall, green grass grew – the pasture! They would take off sometimes even running up the old fenced lane that went up over the hill through the cornfield to the lush green pasture on the other side of the farm. There they would graze for a while then lay down and rest for a while then graze some more. They did this all day long. Come evening we would go over to the pasture’s edge and call the cows – 'come boss, 'come boss. They would gather at the pasture gate. Sometimes we would have to go round up a few stragglers and when all were accounted for, we’d open the lane gate and back over the hill they would go to the barnyard for the night. The next morning was the same routine, day after day. What a life, huh?!

Oh that we could just graze and rest in shady green pastures all day long! But we can rest and graze in God’s green pastures and restore our souls . . . The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he restores my soul. (Ps. 23:1) I believe God wants us to slow down and “rest” and “graze” and “feed” on His Word. Life throws so many things our way and we are so busy – busy doing good things. But are we running on empty a good share of the time? Are we feeling stretched to extreme? Are we content with who we are in God’s divine providence? Slow down and take some time to just leisurely graze, rest a while, then graze and feed on the good things God has provided for you. Graze, rest, and enjoy the “shady green pastures” of God’s abundant love, grace, and mercy.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

9-11 Twelve Years Later

As you reflect on September 11, 2001, pray this prayer. – It will bring you peace today … and every day. – May the Lord heal and protect our country! ~~@[123733579947:274:CALLED Magazine]

 It's hard to believe that it has been 12 years since the terrible 9-11 Tragedy of the attack on the United States.  How time takes it toll and marches on!  I remember so vividly getting ready and heading for work that day.  I was a little stunned as the news flashed over the TV and then the radio in my car and the radio at work as the news began to unfold horrifically.  

 Isn't it strange that most of us can remember the time of day, exactly what we were doing, who we were talking to . . . These things make such an impact on our lives and of course on the families and the lives that were lost in this tragedy.  I remember touching base with my daughters who were away from home attending an out-of-state university.  Fear seemed to grip us all as we went through that day experiencing the "unknown" - not knowing what to expect or where to turn.  Not knowing the extent of the casualties, the direction of our country and the military impact of such an attack. The "unknown" can be so fearful and disheartening.  

 But when our "trust" is in God the fear dissipates. We may still be somewhat fearful but the bottom line is that the God of the Universe knows all, sees all, hears all, He has "all" under control.  We may not always understand everything about God's control but we can TRUST HIM - "for" - "with" - "in" - "through" - and "above" ALL THINGS"!  So put your trust in the one that can exchange our fears for a peace that fills our very being to overflowing - in spite of our fears!

 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.  Proverbs 3:5-6
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