Thursday, June 5
- Scripture: James 5:7 – “Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains.”
- Reflection: Patience is a necessity in gardening, and also in our spiritual growth. We lay the groundwork, we take small steps, we set intentions, and then invite the unfolding of events. We can be active partners in learning, growing, working, and serving. Yet we must also give ourselves time, space, and a healthy environment to begin and sustain growth.
Each aspect of our experience, and our ongoing activities, contributes to how we are shaped. All that unfolds in our lives will be integrated into what comes next. Some things we can influence. External factors also involved. We can only control how we respond.
We may set goals. Yet we usually must seek to accomplish our plans over a period of time, rather than all in a single day. Embrace the path that involves many small, incremental moves toward a goal or an outcome you are seeking. Allow time to be your ally. Be present to the current moment, while planning for the future.
And remembe alwaysr, we are also in God’s hand. Often we need connections, and cannot achieve what we seek to do, alone. Seek support. Allow others to help or contribute, if possible. Collaborate.
If you’re frustrated, or impatient, turn that challenge into a prayer. Breathe. Name what you cannot control. Focus on what it’s possible for you to influence. Turn over or let go, in prayer and practice, what may be too much for you to carry or attempt to manage on your own. Share such impediments with God, with friends, with community. - Spiritual Practice Prompt: Give yourself the gift of time today. Set aside time for something that will nurture you.
Songs:
- “Let It Grow” by Eric Clapton: https://youtu.be/YpDlmop0uYU?si=nu4aKxUTNDX-enUW
- “Patience” by Guns N’ Roses: https://youtu.be/ErvgV4P6Fzc?si=gq7e9K4_uk0e2Z59
All human wisdom is summed up in two words; wait and hope. — Alexandre Dumas
The creation of a thousand forests is in one acorn. ― Ralph Waldo Emerson
June 5 Daily Devotional