Happy are those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or take the path that sinners tread, or sit in the seat of scoffers; but their delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law they meditate day and night.

They are like trees planted by streams of water, which yield their fruit in its season, and their leaves do not wither. In all that they do, they prosper.

The wicked are not so, but are like chaff that the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous; for the LORD watches over the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.

-- Psalm 1:1-6

This reference to trees affirms my deep sense of joy and presence of God when I am in the woods. There is a forest park very near my home and I can see the path leading the way in from my window. When I choose to break away from wrestling with daily issues and trivial distractions and go walk among the trees, I am at peace. There the beauty of nature, the sounds, the feeling of dappled sunshine on my face is indeed my happy place.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, let me be as the trees, my face upturned towards you. Growing in your light. prospering as I follow you and let me not get lost in doubtful thoughts. Let me plant myself along your path, grow my roots deep and yield good fruit.

-- Allison McGee