Now that I am retired, I can spend long stretches of time on my porch, enjoying the beauty of my rural home. It is one of my favorite places to think and to realign my priorities. When the sultry, mid-August heat engulfs this farm in the deep south that I call home, I abandon my rocking chair on the porch for an air-conditioned room and an overstuffed chair beside a large window overlooking the front yard.
A hot breeze rustles the leaves of the magnolia tree, casting off the last bits of flowers that have bloomed and faded. The magnolia offers a considerable amount of shade, much cooler than that of the giant oak, which has always puzzled me. Just one more mystery in the puzzle of nature, designed by the hand of a loving God.
These sounds and scenes remind me that God’s presence is where we look for it – often in places we take for granted. Peace lies quietly over this property, soothing my soul. The blessings I see will change form once autumn arrives. I am thankful for God’s joyous hand, displayed in animals, bountiful wildlife, fruitful trees and wildflowers.
This message is excerpted from “Summer peace” by Ruby Kelley in the July/August 2024 Gather magazine. Today we commemorate Maximilian Kolbe, 1941; Kaj Munk, 1944; martyrs.
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