The Wilds

One day way back in high school I was out at my parents house, which is deep into the woods of eastern Washington. I was hanging on our hammock and simply enjoying the sweet smell of pine trees, the blue sky, and the sound of the forest. I would often spend my days out there in that forest carving out walking sticks, chopping wood, and exploring.

Then my mother called out to me from the log cabin front porch. Someone had called for me on the telephone.  It was my friend Tony who was in the student government. He asked if I would speak at one of our graduations ceremonies. I accepted the invitation.

I went back to my hammock and thought about the beauty in the forest and how it had changed my life. I thought about when I met Jesus on a drive through that very forest full of tall pines, windy creeks, and wildlife. I am pretty sure the Spirit of the Lord moves in the forest.

I also, thought about all of the times I was in town and how I struggled to fit in with other people. I would often feel like I needed to wear a wooden mask in order to fit in with people. It seemed rather easy to manufacture these masks, but they weren't me. Every time I would use these masks the had a poisonous effect on me and I would forget a bit of myself. This forced me to spiral into a depression an anxiety about self-image and what have you.

Eventually I took that drive through the woods where the Lord met me face to face. He questioned my masks and offered to take them away. I was terrified, but he was patient and reassuring. He revealed to me the true nature of who I am and how he sees me, as we drove through unadulterated forest which he created.

I was brought to tears and gave my masks over to Jesus. He an I burned them in the fire that is fueled by the power of his blood. He made me new and told me I would never have to be ashamed ever again. From that point on the Holy Spirit has been moving through the forest of my mind and tending to its needs. We simply let go and allow the Lord to rule what he has created, and be at peace in his grace.