For a long time, I thought sumac was an ugly plant. Nothing about it impressed me. All it did was blend in with other weeds. But that was before I realized it was the source of the flaming reds and oranges I saw transforming the roadside in the fall.
Now when autumn rolls around, I’m on the lookout for sumac. And once again, I haven’t been disappointed. I wish you could have seen its leaves igniting the roadside on a recent trip.
While the trees were just beginning to turn, the sumac was already glorious, especially where the sun was shining. Autumn is truly its season to shine.
Have you ever felt like sumac in summer? Nondescript. Unimpressive. Unimportant. Just filling space. I have.
The Enemy of our Soul wants us to think we’re no more important to our Maker’s plan than that common green sumac was to me.
But the truth is, God created each of us to play a part in His Kingdom. The time will come when He’ll invite us to come into our season.
Unlike the sumac, we have a choice. I hope we’ll say yes, so we can shine—not for our glory, but for His.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:14 (NIV)
Copyright © Reflections from Dorothy’s Ridge 2015. All rights reserved
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Published by Dorothy Johnson
I'm a lover of God, mother of three, grandmother of eight, and a collector of friends. I like nothing better than talking, listening, laughing and eating with that crowd. My husband, Terry, and I feel blessed to wake up each day to a magnificent view of the Arkansas River. An amazing variety of creatures, from bobcats and coyotes to deer, bunnies and nutria, along with all sorts of birds roam the natural area behind our house. We also share our home with three silly kitties. I often find a lesson in what I see both indoors and out on any given day and usually find myself writing about it. I hope you'll join me in exploring the ways God speaks to us through His creation.
View all posts by Dorothy Johnson
Friend, you always shine.
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Aw, that's kind. Same back at you, as they say. And thank you.
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I know that feeling too, Dorothy. So glad we both realize that God has wondrous plans for us!
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