Running Low

I’ve been watching the water level in the pond get lower and lower with the summer heat. The edges now show yellowed grasses that were once rooted deeply in the water. The fish fins pop up and I wonder if they are getting crowded as the water shrinks in August weather.

This morning I woke before sunrise and went out on the porch to drink coffee. I studied colors as I watched the peachy pink sky become lined with lavender and explode into orange, as the bright ball of sun said, “I’m back! And ready to heat things up and soak up all the moisture I can find!”

It’s been a while since I had an opportunity to paint outside. I’ve been working on a commission, (which is a great plan for days when air conditioned studios are preferred.) But I was missing my interaction with nature and my communication with the Creator, as painting outside is my favorite form of worship.

I knew if I only drank one cup of coffee and grabbed my paint gear, I could get out there before the heat became miserable. But I sat and stared. I was running low, as low as that water level dipping below the reeds. My mind had been overloaded with this thing we call life; too much going on, too many decisions to make, too much noise and too many interruptions.  Can you identify?  I needed to be alone with God and paint,  to see the things He wants me to see, both visual and spiritual.  So I picked up my backpack and easel and drove to the other side of the pond. 

I saw the beauty of the water’s edge, the light and shadow in the surroundings, the cool yellows of morning light, and the white and purple blooms of the wildflowers produced by the August heat.  And I began to feel reassured that I’m surrounded and supported by God’s love and goodness, His direction and provision.  Thus, my spirit soared and was renewed.  

By 9:30 a.m. the sun had made its way over me and pushed me indoors.  I packed up as I chuckled about the irony of someone naming an August wildflower “Snow on the Prairie,” despite the August heat!  It must have been due to wishful thinking. 

Here’s to the days we are “running low” and praying for the desire to overcome it.  My wishful thinking has something to do with hoping my energy level will rise.   

 Isaiah 40:31 says “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings of eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.”  

Oh yes!  I am hanging on to that.  Maybe you needed to hear that, too.