We just finished our work for the day. I feel particularly close to God in a hay field -- a place where I feel I can "cultivate" his presence. It's one of my favorite spots on earth, what I would consider a "heavenly" sight and sound. Farming is just so peaceful. There's laughter and chit-chatting, of course. But mostly you just silently and happily go about your work, hour after hour after hour. No one is in a hurry. There is a pace to farming that requires a great deal of patience. You just keep going until your work for that day has come to an end, often after dark.
Thank you, Lord, that I can feel close to you in the fields, at the ocean, on a mountaintop -- wherever you call me to walk closely beside you. Your presence calms and soothes me. The fields are a visual and sensory reminder of your love and power. I could never imagine that someone would look at the beauty of your creation and not see your handiwork. I am not even deserving to look upon it! Nature humbles me and makes me feel small. I give you the glory for the solace that farm work always brings to me along with the sweet memories of Becky and feelings of closeness to my children and grandchildren. As I look out at the familiar view of the fields I am once again in awe of the beauty of creation and your constant love. In life there are good and not-so-good times! Life does all that. Yet your love is as constant as the seasons, giving us an anchor to hold onto through life's storms, treasures, and surprises. Glory be to you!
