Comments on: And the willow

By: Michele Kelsay

Michele Kelsay — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 20:12:32 +0000

Thank you for the moment of rest created by the piano, the picture and the willow.

By: Vickie

Vickie — Tue, 09 Feb 2016 13:42:19 +0000

The challenge is to end the distraction at the willow. Father, end my distractions today on the willow. Show me your love through your creation around me. Don’t let me camp out on a distraction of the enemy. Lead me to the truth of the willow.

By: Esther hawkins

Esther hawkins — Sun, 31 Jan 2016 06:03:03 +0000

I love how intentional you are, even in rest, you are always moving forward 🙂

By: Sophia

Sophia — Fri, 29 Jan 2016 19:56:00 +0000

I love what you said about being unfinished…yet! That is such a freeing statement to think about, how we are unfinished but makes me think about how the work of Christ was finished on the cross when He gave His life. And someday…we will also be finished when we share eternity with Him. Thanks for making me think bigger picture today. Something I really needed. Love the words you speak into my life.

By: Suzanne

Suzanne — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 22:40:29 +0000

What drew me to your post, Alicia, was your mentioning the willow. My daughter Anna just finished a poster report about the black willow which is native to Texas and much of the eastern parts of the US. I surround myself with things like this that pronounce their beauty to me so readily. Having read recently about the culture of Jesus’ day, I realize what I consider generous and beautiful would be luxurious and of massive proportions to the average person in Judea: my home, our rooms, the amount of dishes we own! I find it rather humbling as I realize that I have much to be thankful for, even the “distractions” of our children in various seasons of life, aged 20 down to 8 years. They daily have concerns we must walk them through. This pull to walk along side them and yet do the necessary things of life, too, can feel overwhelming, but the “distractions” have forced me to go to God when the matter is too weighty for me. Without that push to His feet, I may not have ever realized the precious blessings I have in knowing Him, walking with Him, and seeking out His help. I want that more and not just to feel as if I am pulled from one distraction to another. Thankfulness must be the order of the day for me! Thank you God for the moments of quiet and the push to your feet. Thank you for those around me and friends like Alicia that challenge me to remember and treasure each moment.

‘All things work together for good, for those who are called according to His purpose.’ Romans 8:28

By: Sistersheri

Sistersheri — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 19:15:27 +0000

Thank you for sharing some of your process. It is encouraging.

By: Sharah F.

Sharah F. — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 13:09:45 +0000

I love this! I’m usually a very structured person-enjoying order & timelines. However, as a worship leader for a small church, I spend it whimsically and see inspiration in many areas, and it brings out the artistic side of myself which I’m learning to love and enjoy…taking the time to breathe in the Lord’s presence.
#inspiration #thankyouLord

By: Jaime Wesson

Jaime Wesson — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 02:31:46 +0000

What an extra special glimpse into the craft of writing! I love the juxtaposition of the desk versus the chair. I have been discovering the crook of our living room couch, making my home there when inspiration hits. I suppose it is a writing place which will need to change as I get more serious as a writer. For now, it is in the center of distraction where I can hear bird song and child’s play keeping me attuned to this season of rest and play. Even while writing serious prose, I must relax and take joy in the word play, flit around with ideas, and enjoy the whole creative process.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 20:16:59 +0000

Thanks for sharing. The beauty of the willow tree strikes me as it has deep roots that run for water. I love how adaptive they are

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Tue, 26 Jan 2016 20:12:52 +0000

I also am preparing a sermon.

When I pause I see the identifying accessories of a home serving as a rehab center sometimes, critical care unit occasionally, always a home for the progressively disabled husband. Bandages, mixes for smoothies the days when he cannot chew, the dreaded but such a blessing…paper underwear. All of this pushes what the world would call beautiful out into another room in our small apartment.

There was a time I resented the space all of this occupies but now I consider it all supreme gifts from the God Who Sees, Knows, and Provides.

I have been writing sermons most of my life–I’m seventy-seven now. The ones that appear to have had the greatest impact in the lives of others have been those written in this cluttered place that resonates with the cry for the healing of God. Both in body and soul.

Miriam Conrad
miriamlconrad@gmail.com