a love for all things green and brown

This past weekend presented itself with the amazing opportunity to go and be away. The kind of away where I could get away. Away, yet closer. Closer to where I long to be. Where I long to be on a moment by moment basis– close to Him.

I have learned much about patience lately. More than I would have ever signed up for; yet, taking the time to go back into stillness, even after having an incredible week, I was reminded that unless I draw near, I cannot continue in that state I was in previously. Meaning, tangible blessings may not always flow as they have been for me recently, but the flow of spiritual blessings is always available. I want to fully grasp what being present with Him means; no matter in the tangible blessings or in the spiritual blessings.

Retreating to the woods was such a breath of fresh air, no pun intended. I felt a sense of warmth, despite it being so cold. My favorite nature spot included massive art pieces of ice. I could no longer focus on the chattering of my teeth, the numbness of my toes, or the blueness of my fingers, but instead the warmth of my heart.

How can such a magnificent plant survive such a magnificent temperature? It is as if the ice encasing preserved it’s evergreen beauty. I just wanted to stay. Stay in the midst of God’s artwork, where it is not covered with busyness, over-structured industrialization, or man-made pleasures. Here, is where I can sense God the most.

Right, smack in the middle of His art, there are these quiet sounds: birds chirping, leaves rustling, and water dripping. Yet in the silence, He speaks even louder. Louder than I have ever “heard.” I wish I could explain the warmth I felt. No sunlight could beat it.

I have officially found where it is that I must go to completely let go of who I am. Into the woods, surrounded by more than I can fathom, He is increased. In awe, I decrease.

“Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”

James 4:8