A lesson on the important virtue of patience: A couple of weeks ago, I went with my parents to TN to visit the Ketron side of my family. Since then, my dear cousin Jamie has been bugging me to see the photos that I took while I was there. I can't wait to post them on this blog, but I'm determined to carry out my mission of finishing my "series" on the Cataloochee Valley trip of LAST Summer (taken with the same side of the family)! As soon as I finish this series, I will skip everything else in line to be posted, for Jamie's sake! 'Til then: STAY TUNED!
This blog helps me tie in one of my favorite verses from Jeremiah; one that I love because it speaks directly to my current circumstance and my lack of patience. You'll find it mentioned below.
Our next stop in the Cataloochee Valley was at Palmer Chapel. Like everything else in the valley, it was quaint and well, adorable! The sign below was at the edge of a field, where I can imagine the parishioners gathered after service every Sunday.
This was the view of the church from the road, because it faces the river only a few yards away. Keep in mind that though it was Summer, it was still pretty chilly that early in the morning, in the valley and near the river. As you can see, there was a beam of sunlight that shined directly on the steeple of the church with a purpose. In that spot there was an ominous warmth; the kind that compels you to close your eyes and unmistakably feel His presence.
My sister loves to photograph churches. When she first told me that, I didn't get it, but I've since come to understand the beauty of a small church with such a powerful aura.
Can't you just imagine the congregation sitting in the pews, listening intensely to the preacher's sermon?
When I took this photo of the Bible, I didn't even pause to see what book, chapter, or verse it was turned to. In fact, I didn't even take notice until I was editing it to post. The page is on Jeremiah 43. Not a chapter I'm familiar with, but in a book that holds one of my favorite verses.
About a year ago, I did a Bible study in which one of the lessons was on the verse Jeremiah 29:11. As I mentioned above, this verse speaks to me and my impatience with life. Daily, I find myself frustrated that things in my life have not gone according to MY plans. At this point, I expected to be settled in a home, that I own, with my husband. I expected to have a job that I loved, and maybe even a family of our own. Yep, the white picket fence would have been a nice touch too. However, I'm constantly reminded of what God has to say about that,
'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future' ~ Jeremiah 29:11.
I think there's only a couple more stops in the valley, so stick with me!
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