Under a Tree

It’s Sunday afternoon. My son sits under a green tree by the side of a lake, surrounded by peace and by his family—his wife who faithfully joins him in ministry, and his children who look at him as a man of God.He can enjoy this gift today because, almost 30 years ago, when our life was sad and grey, we were brave enough to leave oppression behind.Then, 15 years later, God called him to ministry—and he said yes. I know he had doubts. I know he was afraid, just as I remember my own doubts and fears when I left behind the only life I had ever known, stepping into an unknown future, into a life I could not have imagined.Now, on this Sunday afternoon, I find myself weeping in God’s presence. Here, on this farm, I see His faithfulness. Our imperfect obedience to a righteous call allows us to celebrate today.Today, we give thanks.Today, we praise.Yes—we praise God!“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”—Lamentations 3:22–23