Along our fence line we planted an array of wildflowers. We prepared the bed, defended against weeds, diligently watered, and then waited. And waited. Nothing but weeds. But, Lo!, a week or two later a volunteer pumpkin plant sprouted. And just yesterday we harvested a picturesque pumpkin – perfectly round and perfectly orange.
I’d rather have a pumpkin than an array of wildflowers, especially in Autumn. “The plans of the heart belong to man, but the reply of the tongue is from the LORD.” (Proverbs 16:1)
In every case, the Lord’s reply of the tongue is way better than the plans of the heart.
“O God, your never-failing providence sets in order all things both in heaven and earth: Put away from us, we entreat you, all hurtful things, and give us those things which are profitable for us; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.” (Proper 4 – BCP)