Grandpa's Garden: Guided By the One Who Loves Us

During almost fifty years of marriage, we’ve learned that some home-related tasks require both of us to accomplish. Other chores are best done by just one of us according to individual talent and interest. Sorting out who would specialize in a particular area took negotiation and compromise. When something urgent presented itself, often involving one of the children, whoever was closest responded, regardless of specialty.

A few years ago, I willingly began doing the weekly food shopping. With time, I acquired a detailed familiarity with the market, item and aisle locations, nutrition labels, and careful choice of a smooth-pushing shopping cart. My wife is willing to reclaim the shopping; however, I’m not inclined to give it up. (Note: I do not make up the shopping list; I follow it.)

Making Their Day Easier

During one of my trips to the store, another shopper and I tried to roll our carts into the same aisle simultaneously. Perhaps due to my senior status, she motioned me to go first. I declined her graciousness. She had a child in the cart seat, and I mentioned that she should go first since she had a precious traveler. With a smile, she agreed and rolled on. I wanted to do whatever I could to make the day of a toddler’s mom a little easier, no matter how small the gesture.

I don’t know why I called the child a traveler. Perhaps because the little one seemed so content on their journey around the store, moving through the sights, sounds, and scents, guided by the one who loves them beyond description.

“And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.” (Matthew 18:5)

We often use “journey” as a metaphor to describe movement and growth through life’s paths. The meaning captures the unexpected, required commitment, and desired destination.

Movement, Commitment, Desire

“Your love is before my eyes; I walk guided by your faithfulness.” (Psalm 26:3)

We may think of our prayer life as a kind of journey, a movement that includes the unexpected and calls for our commitment as we seek God, our deepest desire.

Your Faith Journey

Where will the Lord take us in our prayer?

I believe God always takes us to Himself, the One who loves us beyond our understanding. The Spirit of God is the Guide for our journey and also its destination.

Let us pray in our families for the consolation of prayer and the guidance of God’s Spirit in all our daily travel.