A couple of weeks ago I spent a few days at my cousin’s cabin deep in the mountains where you hear only the whispers of the aspen leaves. I sat there on their deck looking out to hear the rustling of the Aspen leaves. I went there to process what is next in my life and have some time in God’s creation. Little did I know, my dog was going to teach me about presence!

The next morning, I heard the whispers of the aspen leaves hiking with my adventure buddy, Freckles. We hiked a couple of miles back into the valley near the cabin! It was beautiful and off the beaten tracks. He all of a sudden paused and looked out to the valley, and then looked back at me! It was like he was telling me to just be present with him! We sat there together in silence and enjoyed the sounds around us and each other. He I heard the leaves and was surrounded by large aspen trees. At that moment, I reflected on Psalm 73 that I had been reading and reflecting on for the few days I was there. There are a few verses that the Lord kept reminding me of how close He is to me and He is the strength I need to lean on.

Psalm 73:26-28
“My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.”

In this time of transition between jobs, I have been reminded of the Lord’s presence in my life. Being in the midst of the aspen trees and looking out to the valley reminded me how I am surrounded by the Lord’s presence through people, His word, and my heart! The view alone was a reminder of the Lord’s presence! My dog reminded me in the moment to take in the whispers of the trees and pause! I needed to listen and to take a moment in order for the Lord to work through me and teach me! He does that often now just sits to take some time to enjoy moments with me! This is what the Lord desires from each of us! Spend time to hear His whispers.

Lord,
I felt stuck in a place where I wanted to serve you but felt like I was not being seen but some people. You took me out of that place and placed me in your arms. Your strength and comfort are guiding me to seek you and seek the future. But for now, I am taking time in your presence like my dog showed me to enjoy moments! I do not want to take this time for granted! I want to see you and feel you! AMEN!