FOODFORTHOUGHT

CORNFLOWER
By Marion Smith
September 11. 2010

James 4:8 Draw close to God, and He will draw close to you

The cornflowers in our front yard give a vibrant display
of purple beauty for a few weeks each summer. Then they turn brown
and the petals fall away, leaving the seed head only which looks very
unattractive. I considered cutting them at the base of the stalk, but
first I read about this particular flower in my perennial garden book.
It advised leaving the seed heads because birds enjoy eating these
seeds. I thought, O.K., I'll do what the book says-- just follow
directions.

Yesterday I saw a beautiful goldfinch sitting on top of
one of the flower heads, eating the seeds to its heart's content. It
was such a beautiful sight, and such a wonderful experience for me. I
had seen exactly what I read about in the book.

The same is true when one reads the Bible. There are
stories, parables, and truths galore. We may store up head knowledge
and may be able to spout off scripture- chapter and verse! However, it
is not until we have that personal encounter -- when we really
experience for ourselves that Jesus is alive and with us now that we
become excited about being a Christian. Then, all the Bible reading we
have done really "click," and we say –" Yes, Lord!! This is
fantastic!!"

I am thankful I have had that first hand experience with
our Living Lord, and I have received joy beyond measure. I am also
thankful for our Bible- for its truths are real and available to us
each day of our lives.

I am delighted that God reminded me of this truth through
a dried out cornflower and a goldfinch. He touches my life in the
most delightful ways!

Marion Smith noles65@aol.com
comments and feedback welcome

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