A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance. Proverbs 15:13 (KJV)
October has arrived, and down here in northwest Arkansas the leaves are beginning to turn. There’s a chill in the morning air, and it’s time to put the fall decorations on the front step and by the street lamps.
About this time a few years ago, when Paxton and Calianne were tiny, we picked out a stand-up scarecrow from the grocery store. They’re all over the place these days, and for seven dollars it has been a source of fun memories.
Actually, the scarecrow isn’t an “it,” she’s a “she,” and she has acquired an identity of her own. The kids dubbed her “Pumpkin Girl,” and she’s as cute as her name, even though she doesn’t resemble a pumpkin at all. She’s a scarecrow.
Well, my husband pulled her down from the garage attic a couple of days ago, and I noticed her standing there this morning when I backed out to do the school run. Something about her smile has stayed with me. Who knew you could learn something about life from a raggedy scarecrow? What I can’t get out of my head is her unflagging look of peace and contentment.
Granted, she’s an inanimate object, but hear me out. She has weathered winds and rain, even some fierce storms over the years. She has been stuck where we put her, and her outsides show the wear and tear. But her countenance has not faded. Her smile still lights the doorway to our home.
I know that she cannot choose those characteristics, nor does she possess the life to care. However, I can and I do. Am I choosing to wear Christ’s joy on my face despite life’s weather? Do I possess enough of Christ’s life in me to care? Long live Pumpkin Girl, and may my countenance light the doorway to Jesus.
Faith Step: Memorize Psalm 89:15 (NLT): “Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, Lord.”
