Vineyard

by Sarah Hudson

All of us probably have a “happy place” that brings a unique calm to the stormy thoughts of our daily life. One of my favorite happy places is a little vineyard that is about a 7-minute walk from our apartment. In my vineyard, I observe the seasons unfold. From barren vine stalks, I watch the leaves sprouting and the growing of grapes. I taste the sweetness of harvest and watch the leaves dress in the brilliance of autumn fashion before falling to the cold ground. Then comes the frost, the winter snow, and the entire cycle begins again. My vineyard is situated on a hill, and from this quiet place I so often gain better perspective—catching a glimpse of beauty as I overlook our city below. 

How my Father has used these walks as a repeated reminder for my weary soul. Often, we face seasons of ministry that seem barren. Attendance seems stagnant or even declining. Some grow cold in their sin. We see very little new life. And as we question our methods and our hearts, the Lord visibly reminds us that the season will change as we remain faithful. And eventually, we begin to feel warmth again, and see the sprouts of new life and the faces of new worshipers. Some in the church grow tender to God’s Spirit and convicted about sin. The season unfolds to fruitful days and rejoicing in the harvest. God visibly reveals His faithfulness in the seasons of my vineyard, but also in the seasons of my ministry. He creates an annual exhibition of hope as He brings beauty and bounty in His time – the fullness of time. 

Yesterday, I went with a friend to the Austrian Wachau Valley. The “happy place” vibe from my local vineyard is significantly amplified in this breathtaking area. The beauty is a balm to my soul, and I simply breathe in the wonder of it all. As we were there, it struck me that the name of this place is nearly the same as the German phrase to wake up: “Wach auf!” May I wake up to the immense beauty of seeing things from a higher perspective—an eternal perspective.  May I wake up to the repeated truth that God orders both the seasons of nature and the nature of ministry. May I wake up to the immeasurable wonder of our faithful Father and compassionate Creator. May I wake up and listen for His voice in the stillness, to reserve my time and attention for the quiet communion of His Spirit within me—to wake up to the realization that the greatest “happy place” of all is the fullness of joy in Him.