More from Robert E. Boertien

Many of the devotionals I have written over the years were inspired by nature, which I suppose is to be expected when one lives in a mountain community as I do. The river mentioned in my March 16th devotional is designated as a “wild and scenic river,” so no dams or other structures affect its flow. Since writing this devotional, a major storm with heavy rain and high wind passed through our area resulting in trees coming down and rivers reaching flood stage.

After the water receded and the mud slides were cleared, I returned to the bridge expecting to see the sapling gone. I wasn’t even sure the boulder would be in the same place. But it was, and so was the sapling. Although somewhat bedraggled, I believe the young tree likely will recover and flourish this summer.

We all face challenges in life. Often these setbacks are not endings but rather course corrections with new opportunities to serve God and our fellow human beings. Let us gratefully accept the Lord’s blessings while continuing to watch for ways to be a blessing to others.