Haste the Day

I have an unmistakable leading about this particular picture, which was taken on a recent hike of the Springfield Bog. One of the newer Metro Park trails, it holds something delightful in every season. Sure, the other parks, do too, ... in a different kind of way. Prairie-like in its makeup, the wide open nature of its composition just feels markedly unique. We have enjoyed watching it from its infancy, rushing out to hike it on January 5, 2011, the very first day that it opened to the public. It has been interesting to observe its metamorphosis over the months.

From day one, there was talk in the Metro Parks publications that a man-made bog had been tucked away somewhere in the center of the property. Curious as I was, I could never quite catch a glimpse of it. I was aware of the general area that it must be located, but I just had to take their word for it. I guess that I had enough of the legalist left in me to prevent me from departing from the marked path and blazing a trail through the overgrown vegetation in search of the bog. So I waited... and wondered... and hoped for the chance to eventually see it.

Much to my delight, on our last visit, a wide swath of grass opened up from the side of the trail. Veering off the path, and gently sloping downward, it led in the general direction that I believed the bog to be in. Seizing the opportunity to finally investigate, we followed the new-found path a short jaunt away. Momentarily, we came upon what I had been waiting for. It was towards sunset and I was not disappointed by the beauteous sight that awaited us. There it was! I had known it was there, pretty much by faith, and it boosted my spirits to be able to see it.

So many things come to mind when I think of the spiritual parallels of this experience. I am reminded that God calls me to live by faith and not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). Especially in the area of God's promises, I need to remember that what He says is true even when I don't see it. Just as I had hope that my eyes would one day see the bog in this picture, I can hope in the fulfillment of what is presently unseen, but true nonetheless. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known (1 Corinthians 13:12). One day I will see! Oh, how the thought thrills me. No more wondering, waiting, doubting, or fearing. I will know.

In closing, I echo the words of Horatio Gates Spafford: "And Lord haste the day when my faith shall be as sight..."

I love You, Lord. I am so grateful for your presence. Thank You for this tremendous mental image of walking by faith. Forgive me for the times when my faith has wobbled due to my inability to see. I pray that You will enable me to be counted among those You call blessed because they have not seen and yet believe. I believe, Lord, help my unbelief! Thank You for the promise that I will one day see.
In the precious name of Jesus, Amen.