Dogwoods in the Spring - Nanette M. Holloway

The magic of spring unfolds in continual beauty. One early bloomer is the dogwood. One of my personal favorites.

This year the all the blooms seem tardy. Impatience dampens my mood just like the scattered clouds, wind and rain. But then maybe it’s just me, and those unseasonably warm temps in early March tricked me into thinking spring would be early.

Back to the rhyme: March wind and April showers bring May flowers.

The vineyard will lag even further behind the beautiful trees. And hopefully will wait long enough to avoid a late freeze that can damage new growth and tender buds.

The beautiful white dogwood usually blooms near Easter. The bounty of blossoms peek through the new emerald foliage in wooded areas. Wild dogwood trees flourish in the shade and grow in clusters in valleys near creeks. Just when I think the white masses of blooms have peaked in performance, the next day awes me once again.

The four cream-colored petals tipped with crimson aptly represent the puncture wounds that held Christ on the cross as He died for our sins. The Legend of the Dogwood claims a floral visual.

Our inclination as Christians is to enjoy our mountain top spiritual experiences or that spiritual high following an awesome touch by the Lord.

But then we have to descend to the valley and live out our faith one day at a time. The valley too, is beautiful. But sometimes valley experiences are lonely, painful, and treacherous. Especially when our faith is tested. The thick woods and rocky obstacles obscure our path. Often the next step requires careful calculation to avoid falls and stay safe.

Then suddenly spring arrives. The woods fill with dogwood blooms. Each blossom reassures and reminds us of God’s glory and presence.

In reality, like the dogwoods, He is ever present, surrounding us with His fragrance, beauty, and grace. He clothes us with His loving presence.

God’s Whisper

My Beloved, come and abide. The dogwoods bloom with brilliance and beauty. They provide joy and light to the woods.

As you traverse the valley, know that I am with you always.

In the valley of the dark woods are obstacles and trials. But I am made strong in your weakness and hear your cry for help. The answer will come.

Remember the blooming dogwoods and the joy I provide along your journey. Rejoice in Me, My Beloved. I am your strength and strong tower. Your help in times of trouble.

Love, the Father

Scripture for Today

“The flowers are springing up, the season of singing birds has come, and the cooing of turtledoves fills the air” (Song of Solomon 2:12 NLT).

Prayer for You Today

Beloved of God, I pray for strength in times of trial and testing. And ask that God would provide joy in your weak state. May His loving presence manifest in tangible ways on your difficult journey. Amen.

This blog post is an excerpt from “Finding Delight in the Vineyard” helps you cling more closely to the Lover of your soul. John 15 is brought to life through the cultivation and care of the vineyard. Are you abiding in the True Vine today?

Finding Delight in the Vineyard: Cling to the True Vine

https://amzn.to/3lGqZnM

Finding Delight in the Vineyard: Cling to the True Vine