Things in their Identity

A tree gives glory to God by being a tree. For in being what God means it to be, it is obeying Him. It "consents," so to speak, to His creative love. It is expressing an idea which is in God and which is not distinct from the essence of God and therefore a tree imitates God by being a tree.

The more a tree is like itself, the more it is like Him. If it tried to be like something else which it was never intended to be, it would be less like God and therefore it would give Him less glory.

No two created beings are exactly alike. An their individuality is no imperfection. On the contrary, the perfection of each created thing is not merely in its conformity to an abstract type but in its own individual identity with itself. This particular tree will give glory to God by spreading out its roots in the earth and raising its branches into the air and the light in a way that no other tree before or after it ever did or will do.

Thomas Merton, New Seeds of Contemplation

photo: flickr

Wisdom

The past weekend, I'd been all too consumed with anxiety about what the future holds for our adoption and for the family for which we desire, as our plans are beginning to shift and sway a bit. Yesterday a desperate plea for wisdom, fresh air and a short walk did me good, unbelievably good. On that walk, wisdom became my companion and it gave me the clarity that I sought and restored my hope once again. It was truly God's gift.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him." James 1:2-5