“They are like trees planted by streams of living water,
which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.” Psalm 1:3
Reflection: I don’t mind thinking of myself as a tree. I am rather fond of the way the wind sings through their branches, how they move and bend while staying rooted, the cool shade they provide, the support they provide for a hiker that must sit down and rest, their autumn brilliance.
On this first morning of a new year, I notice those things that water and nourish my tree-like soul so that I can grow strong and provide shelter. For the psalmist, that nourishment comes from meditation on God’s word to us. For me that strength comes through being planted in a relationship with Christ—a relationship which is nurtured in all sorts of practices like prayerful silence, walking, scripture, music, gratitude, faith conversations, and joy in the people with whom I share this earthly life. This year, may each of have space for those practices that keep us rooted in the Holy One so that our lives produce peace and joy for the world around us. Speaking of which, it is time for a walk to enjoy some trees….
Suggestions:
1. Take this verse with you and ponder its meaning for you throughout the day. What do you notice? What do you wonder? (Click on photo to enlarge.)
2. Or read all of Psalm 1 to discover how this verse fits into this psalm. (For example: who are the “they”?)
3. Or comment with a photo of your own that is a window of this verse’s meaning for you.
Tomorrow’s verse: Psalm 2:7
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