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We humans keep brainstorming options and plans, but God’s purpose prevails. Proverbs 19:21 MSG

Last year was a year of trees for me. I used to enjoy working with wood when I    was younger. I remember a summer when I was a teenager that we decided to    shorten the pasture to keep the animals closer to the barn. We didn’t have fence posts, but there was a decent-sized stand of locust trees. Armed with an axe, saw, maul and wedges, I made around 30 posts. I learned as I went. It was a  great learning experience.  I felt a real sense of accomplishment.
Later on in life, firewood was an extra source of income for our young family. Then came a stint with a tree service company.  So I know the effort that is required to complete the removal of a tree.
I awoke a little later than usual. My wife was already eating breakfast when I went into the kitchen. My greeting was followed by the statement, “the cherry tree came down last night!” It felt like a shot to the gut. I’d already had a plan for the day.
I dressed and went out to survey the damage. Standing there looking at it, I started to get angry. I could feel it almost like a physical garment trying to slip onto me! It caught me up short, I confessed my need for change and asked for forgiveness. I felt His love and presence and enjoyed His company as I spent time laboring once again with one of the refining fires the Lord uses to teach me.

In His service, Sam & Sharon Rakich