Below is a reflection from the past year I spent on sabbatical along with a little attempt at art in hopes it might encourage someone else. I was in a weary place but am so happy to be living much more free and unfettered now!
“Free and unfettered…careless in the care of God.” (Matt. 6:26) When I read these words I see a winding cement path lined by tall grasses and wildflowers. It is tucked between rows of backyard fences, a place to wander open spaces in the middle of suburban sprawl. Down a hill I find a stream under shady trees. It is really only city rain water, but it slows to run over rocks creating a soothing bubbling sanctuary.
In the past year I walked that path many times with an empty soul and heavy tread. I so wanted to be free and unfettered, careless in the care of God, but how did I get there? Fully spent, I plead these words back to Him, asking Him to show me the way.
I love that He chose something so common that, no matter where we live on this planet, we would have this feathered reminder. Look! See! Listen! Whenever you hear a bird trill or see a robin hop branch to branch, let your mind go back to my promise. This is the life I want for you. Free. Unfettered. Living under my care.
O soul are you weary and troubled? Look at Me. Remember my LOVE. I’ve got this. Exhale. Let go. Be free.
I wander back up the path, gathering wildflowers as I go. A small bouquet grows in my hand and a little more shalom fills my soul. It takes many walks, many paths and many other new rhythms to find my way to that unfettered life. It is not a life without cares, it is living knowing He does.
