"Even the wilderness and desert will be glad in those days. The wasteland will rejoice and blossom with spring crocuses. Yes, there will be an abundance of flowers and singing and joy! The deserts will become as green as the mountains of Lebanon, as lovely as Mount Carmel or the plain of Sharon. There the Lord will display His glory, the splendor of our God." (Isaiah 35:1 NLT)
I’ve spent the last several months beating the drum for our wilderness journey. Like the Israelites moving between Egypt and Canaan, we are slowly making our way from sin to sanctification. Only God has the itinerary. We can’t plan the route or the stay overs. The twists and turns and backtracks can feel infuriating, but we travel best when we trust the Cloud and carry on, convinced that He is recreating us amidst harshest conditions.
Today’s text tells us plainly: if we live in the wilderness long enough, we’ll eventually see it bloom. I’ve googled it; even the Negev gives way to wildflowers once in a while. What a wonder to behold!
Here in South Texas we see face some of the worst summer heat and drought conditions, but when blue bonnet season arrives, it’s glorious. And well-worth the wait.
Even the desert blooms once in a while. Keep after the cloud. Follow closely. And one day, you’ll discover yourself walking amidst the wildflowers.
In the meantime, we pray for strength. It’s okay to ask for the courage to keep following closely. It’s acceptable, even encouraged to seek God for the tough it out around another turn in this strange and dusty place. He actually delights in fulfilling the requests of His children. He is overjoyed at overfilling us with His Spirit. He is not far off or willing to watch us perish. He is intimate and invested with those who are fully committed to following Him.
"With this news, strengthen those who have tired hands, and encourage those who have weak knees. Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, and do not fear, for your God is coming to destroy your enemies. He is coming to save you." (Isaiah 35:3-4 NLT)
"And when He comes... springs will gush forth in the wilderness and streams will water the wasteland." (Isaiah 35:6 NLT)
Lord, we rejoice at the truth that even the desert blooms occasionally. We recommit to the journey, determined to serve and see You. Please meet with us in this dry land. Strengthen us. See us through this wilderness existence. We delight and depend on You. Amen.