This canopy of green 

Above the trampoline

Where our toddler squeals glee

And points for me to see

The wonder of the tree

Where the little bird sings.

And the question rises in me, 

“Was this past year of valley

A strange answer to my earnest plea

To finally be free 

From others’ opinion of me?

Was this valley of shadows a merciful means

Of tilling up soil and cultivating 

Hard ground in my heart for a new planting?

I have felt in the pain simultaneously 

The arms of my Good Shepherd carrying me, 

And the comfort of His Word so tenderly

Preparing a place to lie quietly 

In pastures of rest peacefully, 

Stilling my heart that beat frantically

Amidst all the sadness and anxiety.

So, I ask the question of perplexity, 

“Could one reason for this year of mystery

Have been to uproot the fear deep in me

Regarding people’s perceptions and trying to please?

God has been working, and much He’s redeemed

Through the heavy rain and the tears that streamed. 

Through the ache, restoration He’s bringing. 

Despite the confusion, the fog He is clearing.

And like Caring Hands in dough kneading, 

Like a Patient Farmer new crop seeding, 

God is winnowing new ground for new growth to spring.

So, as I follow my toddler’s point to the trees

In search of the bird that continues to sing, 

I feel a miracle happening – 

And blue sky through thick branches I see

A backdrop of hope, sun rays of glory. 

As I stand in summer’s humidity, 

With my toddler’s happy cheeks red with steam,

I cannot deny the heart-healing 

Nor silence the new song I begin to sing –

As upward I look, beholding . . .  

MORE OF GOD.