I step out onto our tiny wooden porch, plop down in the plastic Adirondack chair and breathe out a long sigh. We are on vacation, so why am I so tired, irritable, and frustrated?

The day had been long and my patience short. Stingy with grace, I didn’t give out what has been given to me. At dinner, my son prayed, “And God, please help mommy to be patient with us.”

Sipping my coffee, I look out over the railing. There is nothing in my view but the forest. I hear birds softly chirping, calling to one another. Opening my prayer journal, I begin to talk to God. My heart is raw and the words spill forth, overflowing onto the page.

I pause from time to time to soak in the calm serenity of the woods. The wind gently rustles the leaves and the branches sway in a slow dance. I see a pocket of light, a spotlight of remaining sun shining through the woods, highlighting a lone tree.

Wasn’t it a simple tree who carried the Light of the World? Didn’t He carry this guilt that lays heavy in my heart, heavy from a day of arguments, impatience, and frustration?

The Spirit, He moves gently, just as the breeze and causes my own heart to sway in a rhythm of thanksgiving. He reminds me of His fresh mercy and pours His abundant grace over me. The chirping birds remind me that He cares for me and always meets my every need. His promises from Scripture come coursing through my soul, reassuring and reminding me of His unconditional love. I breathe in deep the fragrance of this life and exhale praise.

He’s always there waiting. Why do I take so long to come to Him? Why do I try to walk into battle on my own? Why do I let my day go by, full of distractions, conflicts, and challenges and not stop and seek Him?

Because once I do, I see Him everywhere.

After tucking in my son for bed, I tell him I am sorry for being impatient with him. “Do you forgive me?” I ask. “I always do, mommy. You know that.”

And so does He.

Linking up with:

Word Filled Wednesday and Intentional.Me