Grace and Peace From God

“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” 1 Corinthians 1:3

Field Milkvetch provided a place beaming with life

I noticed a wildflower, called Field Milkvetch on our property in other years. This year I learned to appreciate it more. We have an isolated patch in an area where the snow drifts in the winter and continues to retain the moisture through the spring time. This environment is most suited for Field Milkvetch to grow and provide benefits for God’s glory. In the last few days, a constant appearance of Bubble bees appeared at the flowers during the warm parts of the day, even during high winds. Some were unusually large without an orange band, and others were Orange-Belted Bumble bees (which produce honey). Both were very impressive creatures. Dark-colored little bees unnoticed before were also plentiful. A few butterflies were gathering nectar (Hair Streak) or laying eggs (Boisduval’s Blue – see photo below). I walked by the patch as I carried boxes of weeds from a vegetable garden to a compost pile. Each time I was excited to see all of the life around the flowers. It is the best kind of garden. I did not plant it. I only protect it and encourage it with occasional watering. It is a picture of God’s grace and peace, a picture of Christ’s church.

Boisduval’s Blue Laying Egg on Field Milkvetch.JPG

The Church brings God glory where He plants it 

Dear God, thank you for planting us where we can serve others for your glory. It is by your grace given to us in Jesus Christ. We do not lack any gift to accomplish your will (1 Corinthians 1:7). As your children, you lead us by your Holy Spirit (Romans 8:14). Give us a “sincere and pure devotion to Christ” 2 Corinthians 11:3. Free us from being “slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another” Titus 3:3. Strengthen our heart by grace and protect us from diverse and strange teachings which have not benefited those devoted to them (Hebrews 13:9). We wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 1:7). Calling upon His name, we pray. Amen.

“I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus, that in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge— even as the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you— so that you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end, guiltless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 1:4-7

An isolated patch of Field Milkvetch provides nectar for Orange-Belted Bubble bees and a host plant for butterfly larva. It is a picture of God’s grace and peace, a picture of Christ’s church.

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2 thoughts on “Grace and Peace From God”

  1. Amazing! I didn’t know that any Bumble Bee produced honey. I know that they are one of the most important pollinators, if not the most important for most crops and plants. You’ve always had a talent for photography and for seeing God’s Word in the world around you. Well done!

  2. Dave,
    Thank you for your comment.
    I feel like a kid again as I explore creation and God with wonder, only now with more understanding and insight.
    Blessings,
    Neal

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