trees & things

How blessed is the man

who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stand in the path of sinners,

nor sit in the seat of scoffers!

But his delight is in the law of the Lord,

and in His law he meditates day and night.

He will be like a tree firmly planted by

streams of water,

which yields its fruit in its season

and its leaf does not wither;

and in whatever he does, he prospers.

Psalm 1:1-3

I love trees. I am fascinated by their beauty, strength, resilience, usefulness, and life. Most of all I think my fascination comes from the parallels I see in scripture between trees planted by streams of water and steadfast faith. I desire a steadfast faith with roots deeply grounded in the Truth. This tree was particularly fascinating to me for some reason. I found it in Oaxaca last week as I was touring Monte Alban (old zapotec ruins) with some friends. It's leaves were such a rich green and it was covered with bright yellow berries. Its thick foliage created an almost perfect circle of shade; it was shelter. It seemed inviting, protective, and steadfast. I just stood and stared in childlike wonder. Could I become like that tree? Steadfast, immovable, solid...yet beautiful and fruitful. Anyways, I love trees...

So I had a lovely time in Oaxaca. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing old friends and visiting the markets. Haley Holik came along with me to make the trip even more enjoyable. We ate the food, practiced spanish, and rode the buses. It was a bittersweet trip for me though. I bonded and grew to love so many of the people there during my year and a half stay. It was hard to leave knowing that I may never see some of them again...I also missed the Thiessen family. They were incredibly generous enough to let us stay in their house since they were visiting in the states. Well tomorrow afternoon I set off on my next adventure! I will spend the next 11 months in Australia, North Africa, and India sharing the love and hope of Jesus Christ and learning to be a midwife!! haha! I am so excited for this opportunity to learn new skills, to see new places, and to learn about the muslim religion. I will try my best to post blogs weekly to keep you all up to date on my travels and adventures on the other side of the world!

I love you all!

in Christ

jill