As I stood outside this morning and my eyes beheld the two large oak trees next to Grandma’s--standing in their winter nakedness before the sunrise—I thought of the acorns that lay on the ground below (which had fallen below) providing food for the creatures of God and quite possibly the deer which come near the house from time-to-time.
My mind went to a question asked of me by Pastor Grant, months ago; when he was still in good health. As he is physically blind, and we had not much opportunity to speak—I approached him while he sat in one of the chairs at the welcome center at Beacon. Laying my right hand on his right hand, I introduced myself as Michael Wood. Being a little witty, and making reference to my last name, he asked me, “What kind of tree are you?”
My mind went to Psalm 1 (and especially versus 2 and 3) and the immediate answer that came out of my mouth was, “I am an evergreen”. Psalm 1:2, 3 “…His delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”
As I glory in the thought of the blessing of God upon my life, and upon all of His chosen, intricately designed by Him to bring glory to Himself, I grow also in my appreciation of His design of all His "trees" (Isaiah 55:12); which bring forth fruit in their season—providing food for all, and especially for the household of faith. And most especially, for those who are like the deer, which panteth by the waters; whose souls longeth after Him. He alone is our hearts desire and we long to worship Him.
You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship You.
I want you more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye.
You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship You.
You're my friend and You're my brother
Even though you are a King
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything.
Father, we would ask you today to strengthen us and to cause us to desire you alone above every earthly desire that we may have. We commit our hearts, our souls, our minds—our very being; and every aspect of our lives to You. We lay our all before You, and trust that You will do good; that You are who You are; and You will give grace for Your Glory. In Jesus name. Amen.
William Grant , at the age of 93 ; having kept the faith , having finished his course ; was received into the joy of the LORD AT 2:30 A.M. / 2-11-09. Unknown to billions in this world, but well know to our Father which is in heaven. A countless multitude will stand before our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ because of the work of His grace through the life of this humble servant who was a faithful husband, father, missionary and pastor.
Michael E. Wood - February 12, 2009
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