22 September, 2011

Grace, The Gift

We have a Kousa Dogwood planted near the end of our driveway, we've had it for years. The most distinctive characteristic of this tree is the fact that it blooms after the leaves are on the branches, unlike the native variety. We thought that was it's most distinctive trait... until a few weeks ago. Surprisingly, these fruit-like seed pods began developing, becoming rounder and redder each day, now beautifully adorning the entire tree! They simply appeared... certainly not expected or worked for, and astonishingly beautiful. Isn't this exactly how God's grace comes to His faithful; unsolicited, arriving freely, and surprisingly more impressive than we could ever imagine? I am grateful for this wondrous reminder.

"For by grace you have been saved by faith, and this is not your own doing;it is the gift of God-- not the result of works, so that no one may boast."-Ephesians 2:8-9

Life is Good!

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13 comments:

Shakerwood said...

How beautiful! We must have the native varieties here ...... and look into getting that one.

MB in MI said...

What a sweet gift! We have a Kousa too--maybe someday....! :-)

*karendianne. said...

…and isn't it wondrous how this would happen so close to you. That is to say - look at what you attract, look at how close to beauty of creation you are. It's all around you!

JudyCinNC said...

Beauty surrounds us - we just need to stop long enough to see it. I love that verse also. Judy C

Becky G said...

Lovely, lovely... The fruit of your tree and the connection you draw to grace, reminding us of this wonderful scripture. I do think taking pleasure in simple things is most satisfying. You also brought back a fond memory... The first Kuosa I ever saw was one my Mother planted in our yard on Oaklawn Ave... In the Sixties! Happy Stitching! B

Ancestor Collector said...

I have seen Kousa Dogwoods doing this up here this year too. They look so pretty, as though adorned for the fall season. You make a wonderful connection to this Bible verse, one of my most favorite pieces of scripture for a reason I will have to tell you about at another time. Thanks for this beautiful post!

Nane said...

I don't know how anyone can look at God's creation and not have faith!

Janet O. said...

I've not, to my knowledge, ever seen this type of tree. You've drawn a beautiful analogy.

Karen Newman Fridy said...

So pretty!! And it looks a bit like a heart too...grace and love go hand in hand :)

Grammasheri said...

Amen!

Salem Stitcher said...

Don't ya just love how that works!?!

Quiltdivajulie said...

Grace ... a wonderful gift.

SpinningStar said...

I checked into this dogwood since I want to plant another one in my yard. Did you know that the fruits are edible - for humans! I would double check into this, though before you try.

I go to the park to get wild persimmon fruit (always after the frost otherwise they are bitter!)

I have a request into my local nursey to see if they can find one for me.

Thanks for the new idea!
liz