We have an old cherry tree in the side yard. Its bark is tattered and there are holes in the trunk but it still seems to be pretty healthy for each spring it is laden with the loveliest pink blossoms. One of its strong arms stretches out over the azalea bushes and bare dirt. There is supposed to be grass there but it blocks out the sunlight and drinks all the water. I don’t mind for hanging from that strong branch is a child’s swing. Mostly it just hangs patiently waiting for a small child to come and fly up and down. It doesn’t get used much and I could tell it all the children have grown up and won’t use it anymore. But I doubt if it would believe me. I think it knows someday someone small child will sit in it and call out, “Push me, please, push me.” “Higher, higher.” Then all the waiting will be rewarded as it soars again bringing joy and laughter to a little voice. Even the cherry tree will be delighted. Good things are worth waiting for.
Jesus said in John 14, “In my father’s house are many rooms. I go to prepare a place for you and if I go and prepare a place I will come again that where I am you may be also.” Those rooms patiently sit all furnished with our favorite things with our name on the door. They could think we are not coming but they know better. Jesus will keep His promise and the rooms will fill with joy and laughter. Good things are worth waiting for.
Written by Roger Bothwell on Sept. 1, 2003
Spring of Life, 151 Old Farm Rd. Leominster, MA 01453