GREETINGS!

As I work on my rock garden--(they still have not sprouted roots)---usually I am sitting on the sidewalk trying to give my back a break after picking up all those rocks to transplant.  It is hot--even in the shade of the huge pecan tree the garden is under.  The work is tedious and requires patience and usually I am focused on the job not paying much attention to cars passing and only a single word greeting to the walkers.  (Strangely none have dared to ask what in the world I think I am doing---in fact they usually walk across the street so they do not have to interact.)  You know it is best to leave crazy people alone.  It can be a lonely job---a single handed endeavor.

I glanced down the sidewalk and saw a jogger coming my way.  It is mid morning and hot, but she is young and some people love to run in the heat.  I look back to my task and say, "Morning" ---not even Good Morning, but a mere curt acknowledgement as I am on task.  As she glides by me she says, "Good Morning!  Jesus loves you!"  At first I am a little startled, but soon broke out in a big smile and replied, "As He loves you!  Have a great run!"  What a sweet reminder, in the middle of a hot slow task of what is really important.  It absolutely lightened my day and I have thought about her courage to reach out with the Good News over and over.  How many of us remind those around us of the love Christ has for us?  How many of us cross the street so we do not have to interact beyond a word or two?  How many of us have the courage to speak truth to a stranger?  How bold are we for the Gospel.  I am convicted---many times I avoid interaction when possible---especially when I am on task.  Is planting rocks more important than spreading the joy of the Good News?  I am praying I will become more bold ---it is important to spread the Good News---eternally important!

"Give each other a warm greeting."

I Peter 8:14