“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11:23 -30 The Message
Yesterday the grassy banks of Central Parks north woods welcomed me.
I accepted an invitation for a walk among the trees. Water loving ginkgoes, red maples, and sweet gums bowed low to greet me. And a sweeping weeping willow sung my name. I heard it above the noise of the city. And lingered long to enjoy it among the peaceful sounds of the woodlands. Her mournful, haunting melody followed me through the ravine, granting me permission to cry.
I did.
Everything was big and beautiful or small, important and full of wonder.
The earth gave under my feet, absorbing the weight of my body. Accepting my presence as part of the landscape she offered handfuls of life-giving sustenance when I pulled. And I remembered my belonging to this earth. Through lug sole boots, I felt a soul connection, sure and true – grounding me in Gods creation.
Rustic trails led to a wildflower meadow quickened with birdsong. Dramatic boulders of the cascade herald a hush. Without a sign or word I know the only right response is silence…rustling leaves mimicked the sound of rain. Every where I turned. God glory. Warmed by his sisters colorful gloves, my teenage son offered a bouquet of quickweed and I stop to weave a crown of the tiny white flowers. Two hours have passed when I realize the park had done a Narnia like number on me. I’d walked through the wardrobe.
I’m not lost but something tells me I’m finding my way home.
We nosh on thick slices of country bread and cheddar cheese to fill our bellies and nibble other edible plants and roots we find along the way. Heart-healthy hawthorne berries. The dark flat leaves of lambs quarters, dandelion and bitter burdock. My belly is full but more than that I’ve feasted on a smorgasbord of grace. I’m satisfied.
A walk along the water’s edge takes us back to the hawthorne bush. It’s there we met and there the magic began. Just steps from civilization, but a world away.
Let your handmaiden find grace in your sight…#GiveMeGrace
♥
There is nothing like God’s beauty to provide sustenance and nourishment for our souls. You found some amazing beauty and the last photo looks like a painting. Thank you for taking time to share God’s beauty with all of us. Blessings!
Mary Geisen recently posted…Sacred Places… {The Weekend Brew}
It was a magical day. One where I got everything I didn’t know I needed. Feeling refreshed. Happy Sunday!
Such beauty, friend. You invite me in and I feel like I’m there with you. Thank you. Much love and grace and peace to you tonight, Lisha.
Dana Butler recently posted…Becoming a Different Kind of Small
How I wish we could take a walk like that Dana!
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I think it’s beautiful that you were able to have this little getaway in the middle of the city, in the middle of your busy life.
Elizabeth Stewart recently posted…Peace, be still…
So you know exactly how much I appreciate it Elizabeth! Such an unexpected treat!
This post made me wish that when I lived in NY, I had visited Central Park a few more times This spoke to me deeply >>>> “Without a sign or word I know the only right response is silence.” It is in responding correctly, as we silent our souls, that we find He is speaking to us. So grateful you took me with you in word & photos. Blessings!
Joanne Viola recently posted…Jesus Christ-Still Is
The hush was holy Joanne and no other response would do. Grateful to share a wonderful day with you. Where did you live in NYC?
Goodness, Lisha! That’s beautiful…making me long to wander through the wardrobe with you. Have a lovely Sunday, my friend.
Patricia @ Pollywog Creek recently posted…I {LOVE} November Sundays::to praise God’s glorious name…
Let’s do it! A magical journey awaits. Happy Sunday Patricia!
that was beautiful.
[…] by Sandra Heska King’s place for Still Saturday. Then visit Lisha Epperson’s gorgeous Give Me Grace. You’ll join us, yes? It’s rest and refreshment–your very own tranquil retreat. And we […]
I don’t have words.
But I think that’s the point. Thank you for this beauty, Lisha. You nourish me.
Sheila Seiler Lagrand recently posted…Weekend Reflection: Everlasting
Just thought I’d share my day. Every step a moment with Jesus. Glad you’re her Sheila!
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what a beautiful testimony of the posture of your heart to see God’s glory at every turn. Humble. Thankful. Seeing. Thanks for your gift of words to be able to bring me along. Loved it!
Karen Brown recently posted…A Proverbs 31 Christmas
Hi Karen! Thanks for joining me. It was a special day, I had to share.
So beautiful, Lisha! Praise God that He is always there, waiting to be found when we seek Him, and to lead us home to Him. Thanks for hosting & God bless!
Laurie Collett recently posted…Flowing Triplets: Living Water Sustains Life!
Hi Laurie! I think I stopped long enough to listen. It’s amazing what an unrushed pace will do. I could see a Him at every turn. The aid for reading.
I feel as if I just walked the woods with you Lisha. Loved the beautiful imagery. I have similar experiences when we are out in the woods. There is nothing like going to a forest filled with trees, birds and pure unadulterated life to remind you of God’s awesomeness!