Snacked on some almonds today.

So sweet! Today in devotions, I came upon this delicate little flower that put a smile on my face. This isn't unusual, since the LORD talks to me a lot using creation. Not only does it realign me with the proper perspective of Who He is (Star- Breather, Designer, Artist, Almighty Sovereign...), but it is guidance from the gentle Shepherd who points out reminders to me as I walk along the path with Him. So when He does this, I put down the reading plan, and put it in park.

God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—

have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made... Romans 1:20

This is not some licence to adopt a pantheistic approach to my surroundings as though they are a source of direction, comfort or authority. No, they are little reflections of His way; a Creator that designs with beauty, wisdom, and is involved with even the most minute detail; these are the things that speak to me. And today, He did this with the almond branch. So I dug out some old books and notes I had on biblical trees and herbs, and was reminded of the sweet significance of this unassuming little blossom. Boy did it pack a walloping punch!!!

I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.
Prov. 8:17

It appears that the Father likes almond branches, and specifically wanted them included in the decoration of His Tabernacle. It is also the rod of choice given to Aaron, as a symbol of authority that produces fruit and bears witness to that which is contrary to GOD- specifically murmuring/ complaining (context in Numbers 17). This speaks to me because when things don't go my way, or we encounter hurdles as a family, like we are with Spencer right now, the temptation is there to grumble and complain. But ultimately, what murmuring really boils down to is a temper-tantrum that we pitch to our Heavenly Father, Who has filtered our circumstances. (Insert GRACE here!) 
But the sweetest thing I discovered, was that the almond branch is the first bud to blossom in spring; a picture of life coming from death. Love it! And obviously GOD loves it too, He made it a priority to paint these pictures for us. Isn't that a comfort?! Also, almond blossoms serves as a signal for Israel to prepare for the up-and-coming Passover- which is a picture and promise of safety and security of God's people, who are safely hidden with Christ in God. Further, we also see Jesus pictured as our living Branch
(Is. 11:1 & 53:2) It's Jesus, Jesus, Jesus all over the place, Jesus! 
What a comfort that is for me during a winter season of worry and doubt.

See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves is heard in our land. Song 2:11, 12

It is winter now, but the buds will blossom again, and in the meantime, I'm 
securely held. 

That is SO Jesus. Thank You, Poppa!
Amen.