Fruit Loops

Ahoy, Mateys! This may come as a surprise to some of you, but I believe that Kansas (old, flat, dull and colorless Kansas), is the most beautiful state in the Union....anytime of the year.
   In winter, the rolling Flint Hills (mid-central part of the state) glisten with pristine snowfalls and even the dried out August hills are glorious in their starkness. When springtime touches Kansas, those same hills are ablaze with riotous splotches of wild flowers.
   Kansas really isn't flat, you know.
   But, nothing compares with my native Kansas at harvest time. From Emporia, to the border of Colorado, Kansas shows off her amazing bounty in "amber waves of grain." Her seemingly endless wheat fields do indeed resemble a sea of gold. And, as the ever-present Kansas wind blows across those millions of blades of grain, it is not hard to imagine ocean waves, rolling and sparkling with glistening shades of yellow.
   This week, as I traveled the wide loop from Kansas City to Hutchinson and back, it was easy to reflect on God's fruitful nature. Because of an extremely early Spring, with perfect weather condtions, there promises to be a bountiful harvest. After all, Kansas is the Wheat State. She is the Bread Basket of the Nation. And, to quote a long-gone Kansas educator........."Kansas is the Navel of the Nation."

Blessed Lord: Thank you for allowing us to witness your bounty. Remind us to be thankful, not only during the "harvests" of our lives, but also during the less than bountiful times.You give us Your best.
Your steadfast love and mercy endures forever.