THERE IS A RIVER

The wooden bench which sat next to the edge of the mighty St. Johns River, was the perfect place to stop and rest along the Southbank. Hypnotized by the sound of the wake as it knocked against the bulkhead, I gazed out at the glistening waters before me. I am so blessed to be living near this beautifully wound waterway, spiraling through my coastal city.

There are nine major bridges that cross the river, all of them busily serving every extension of Jacksonville, moving people from one place to another. Under those bridges are houses, businesses, shipyards and restaurants; from fishing holes to athletic fields, the banks of the river welcome all to her shores. Traditions such as the 4th of July fireworks, annual lighting of the Christmas tree, as well as various boat parades and exhibits keep residents coming back year after year.

Like the divine grace of God, the river is smoothly flowing, bring all who rest beside her, sweet refreshing. Faithfully flowing, it neither overtakes us by monstrous waves nor meanders in a direction of its own choosing, but stays on course.

I sat and pondered the itinerary of the river. Uniquely flowing north instead of south ( just like that of the Nile,) its 310 miles of lazy liquid aquifer make it the longest river in Florida with a three mile expanse at the widest part. These brackish, cypress stained waters have been flowing long past the currents of time.

David speaks of yet a greater river . . . one whose waters bring pure delight to the body of Christ. Her tributaries are a life source to all who prefer the canals and creeks over the main stream and her main purpose is to refresh and renew. The Lord God inhabits the praises of His people, dwelling in the midst of those who worship His name.

If you have not paid a visit to the river recently, come and delight yourself at the waters edge. Allow the gleaming reflection of the Son to warm your soul and lift your spirit. Dip your feet and allow yourself to laugh with God again. He longs to enjoy you!

There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy dwelling places of the Lord. God is in the midst of her, she will not be moved: God will help her when morning dawns. Psalm 46: 4&5

Cyberpsalmist