“Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 43:5

 

The Flower

I recently ran across a dried daffodil that I had pressed years ago in my big, heavy dictionary. It still held the color and the definite daffodil shape. So beautiful, and it reminded me of the day I received it.

It was a lovely spring day, and I had been out walking on a country lane, trying to enjoy the beauty around me. I remember being troubled, but looking back now, I can’t even remember what the reasons were—maybe hormones, maybe relationships, I’m not really sure. I used to think that Christians shouldn’t ever get so down, but I realize now that I’m in good company as I look at David’s life in the Psalms. Why, just in two chapters, 42 and 43, David laments three different times, asking, “Why so downcast, O my soul?” And the answer was, of course, “Put your trust in God!”

But on this particular day, I was having trouble remembering to hope in God or anything for that matter; I just couldn’t feel it. When a car passed me, I recognized a dear little neighbor girl and her dad. They waved furiously, and I waved back. I’ve known this little ten-year-old girl since she was born and watched her grow into a beautiful girl who loves Jesus. Now that’s something to rejoice over!

To my surprise, they stopped the car a ways in front of me. I then saw the girl jump out of the passenger seat and run down the road. What was she doing, I wondered?  She soon came running back to me, a bright yellow daffodil clutched precariously in her hand. She awkwardly thrust it forward, grinning the most amazing smile, and clinging to my waist, she blurted, “I love you!”

I hugged her and thanked her profusely, as tears welled up in my eyes. She had no idea, really, how miraculous her gesture of love was. In two minutes, my day was completely turned around and I tangibly felt the love of God soothing my weary spirit. Oh, hallelujah!

Well, I was a blubbering mess by the time I got home. I realized that, oh yes, God can move anyone to do anything, and I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt, this little flower was from Jesus Himself. He sent comfort and love right where I needed it. Oh, yes, I agree with David, put our hope in God!

“Dear Jesus, nothing is too hard for You. In our human frailty, we often ‘can’t find our way out of a wet paper bag’ as they say; yet You search for us in the dark and shine a light of joy and hope. We thank You from the bottom of our hearts. Amen!”