Like a Tree Planted beside the Waters

What a gift we have in today's first reading from Jeremiah.  The imagery he uses is so beautifully aligned to our Lenten journey, from the desolation for the spiritual desert to the fullness of joy we experience at Easter.

This morning, as we were seated around the table for our morning prayer before my boys left for school, I glanced over at Adam who was seated facing our kitchen windows.  His eyes squinted against the morning sunshine streaming in from the backyard reminded me that we are slipping into Spring - a few weeks ago, we huddled at that same table in darkness and now the lengthening days fill our lives with more light.

Today, Jeremiah says:

Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose hope is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted beside the waters
that stretches out its roots to the stream:
It fears not the heat when it comes,
its leaves stay green;
In the year of drought it shows no distress,
but still bears fruit.

Lord, as I continue my Lenten journey this week, help me to be like that tree planted near Your waters - help me to reach for you in times of stress, distrust, and exhaustion.  Let my soul be replenished by your love, and let me in turn bear great fruit for You.