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