the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord
for the display of his splendor.

They will rebuild the ancient ruins
and restore the places long devastated… – Isaiah 61:2-4

This morning, walking with Max as a heavy mist settled in over downtown Tarboro, I found myself thinking about all the shifts in perspective that come along in response to events like elections, seasons, storms, travel, family, retirement, health and so much more… and at the same time I thought about the strong constants that are faithful, inviolable, sure and true.

The world often projects chaos and uncertainty. But we live in a small town where life seems more anchored in what is permanent than the instabilities, the twists, and the turns that plague the news headlines and cause such consternation.

Even if we were living somewhere more volatile, I believe Rebekah and I would still feel anchored in certainty. Because our foundation is secure and our hope is rooted in truth and assurance and love that stands regardless.

People have been walking on our town common since decades before the Declaration of Independence. Tarboro residents were already living in this house when Grant was president and Custer rode out west. Our downtown has seen revolution, civil war, depression, prosperity, Jim Crow, returning heroes, civil rights, floods, restoration and so much more.

But stronger still, we live in a sense of assurance and permanence that runs deeper than this country, this town or even these ancient trees:“I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “before Abraham was even born, I AM” (John 8:58)!

Floods? Depression? Dry years? Plenty? Recession? Democrats? Republicans? Unrest? Celebration? Stability? An ancient town common? Historic homes? Cold War? International peace?

In the middle of all of this and planted deep beyond the constraints of time and space, our Redeemer is faithful and true.

I tell you the truth; before Abraham was, I AM (John 8:58).
God is our refuge and strength... 
There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God...
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God...
The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress (Psalm 46).
They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord (Isaiah 61).
And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations (Revelation 22:2).

I enjoy my morning walks. Slow, meditative, restorative. The deeper truths always set me free – DEREK