Once upon a time, we lived in Bedford, VA – just outside of Roanoke.  It was one of the most beautiful places we have ever lived.  We were nestled in a valley between the mountains, moo-cows in our back yard, and the most wonderful neighbors you could ever have.  It was a blessing in that place where we found peace, solitude, and restoration.  However, we are not gardeners, but had the opportunity to plant one.  So, we did.  It was beautiful!  It seemed that just over night, we had the most gorgeous cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers.  They were so close to being ready for the pickin!

In Amos 9:13-15, the Lord tells the prophet that there will be a time when the garden – the grain and the grapes will grow faster than ever before.  In fact, God says that this will be a place will His people can come, grow their gardens, have lots to eat, and wine to drink.  They will not want to leave!  And, God doesn’t want them to!  God wants them to be happy and live on the land that He had promised them!  God wanted his people to find peace, solitude, and restoration.

Sadly, our garden was eaten by a herd of deer one night just before the vegetables were perfectly ripe to be picked.  None the less, God had sent us to a place that was so needed for us.  We had faced some hardships and were trying to get our feet back on the ground.

God cares for His people in this way!  God promises us a place that when we are faced with difficult times in our lives, suffering, or hardships, we will be given an opportunity to come and “Rest” – where the harvest will be great and never again to be uprooted.

Let us pray…Gracious God, you love us so much and sometimes we forget that.  We forget that you want us to be happy – to have a place to rest from our hardships and suffering.  Give us what we need when we need it.  Help us to trust You in knowing that you will care for us.  Amen.