Beyond the Pond!

(This is the sequel to the blog entry entitled, “Still Waters Meditation”. See March 2009. If you have not already read it, please do so first.)

I gazed into the still waters of the pond of my life and my being. I recognized the potential energy within my soul waiting for release. I embraced the uniqueness of my personality, talents, gifts and passions. Now . . .

“Show me your ways, Lord; teach me your paths.” Psalm 25:4 NIV

Still crouching at the edge of the pond, something catches my attention out of the corner of my eye. I see the waters start to flow out of the pond into a small stream. Slowly but steadily, I am moving, too! Gasp! I hold my breath in anticipation as I flow into the unknown. Exhale. I am on my journey, with God’s hand on the tiller! Joy!

Gliding from the stream into a river, my perspective broadens. As the Spirit increases the volume of the water, I confidently proceed on my way. Sandy riverbanks encourage me as I meet others on the same voyage. But in some places, rocky outcroppings swirl me around causing me to lose my sense of direction. Always, though, the One at the tiller grips firmly, lovingly showing me how best to serve Him; releasing my energy and uniqueness in just the right portions. Joy!

Oh, Lord, where are you taking me? “This way, beloved!” Rounding the next bend – uh, oh. A shadow grows longer and darker on the river as high-reaching granite cliffs loom large ahead. The river passage narrows as it cuts a route through the canyon making the undercurrents grow stronger and faster. Suddenly – whitecaps break the surface, wildly tossing water in all directions. Whirlpools form, sucking down loose debris. Tossing and turning, I hang on tightly to my Guide, the One who throws me the life jacket. Joy!

The Lord says: “When you go through deep waters and great trouble, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown!” Isaiah 43:3 NLT

Soon, the riverbanks widen, the cliffs melt into rolling slopes and the whitewater loses its confusion. Whew! With shadows of tribulation behind me and sunshine of peace upon me, I inhale, and then exhale. Calm. I am progressing along my journey. My Lord directs my path but has a warning: “Beloved, not always will the river be calm, but always, I will be with you.” For now, the river flows steady – knowing its course, proceeding with purpose. Joy!

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 NIV

Lord, I am overwhelmed with your goodness! Thank you for the unique path you set before me and for traveling along with me. You strengthen me; you enable me to do your good works. Thank you for the honour of being your hands that serve and your words that encourage. I receive your joy and give my praises to you, Lord!