Tokens of Love

Today's blog will be much different that I've written here before. Something I saw today reminded me of something I journaled over a year ago.

February 2012
Over the last several days Holy Spirit has been teaching me to be aware of my Papa's love for me. Whether it be sunsets,

weather systems

  or wildlife, 

I take great joy in Papa's creations. I often try to capture the moment through photography. One morning on my way to feed horses, a doe gracefully loped across the road. I smiled and said "thank you, Papa". He knows how much I enjoy seeing deer.

Walking from my truck to the barn, I heard a familiar "knocking" sound coming from above me. I looked up to see a large woodpecker with a brilliant red head! He was stunning! I was greatly annoyed that I didn't have my camera with me! Later in the afternoon driving down the road I spot a hawk. Upon closer observation I noticed there were two! I cannot recall ever having seen two at the same time! Once again, I didn't have my camera! Although annoyed I couldn't take a picture, I was truly thankful for the opportunity to see Papa's handy-work. It was then that Papa spoke (not in an audible voice but to my spirit) "Just enjoy the moment. This is my 'token of love' for you". I began to thank Him and express my love back to Him! It was a precious moment. I also began to ponder that phrase "token of love". I decided to look up the word. This is what I found.

The definition of "token" 1) something serving to represent or indicate some fact,event, feeling, etc. 2) a characteristic indication or mark of something; evidence or proof. 3) Memento, souvenir or keepsake.

I knew what the word "token" meant but reading these definitions brought a whole new understanding to what Papa spoke to me. As much as I enjoy the "works of Father's hands" I must admit that there are times I take it for granted and when I do I find that I begin to question His nearness and/or love for me. Especially when things get difficult. He reminded me that my opportunity to see the beauty of His creation is His "tokens of love" for me.

I was reminded today of Papa's "token of  love" when I saw this.

 I had taken Kaidence for a walk to the cemetery. There used to be ducks at this pond but they disappeared several months ago. As we got to the pond I saw something on the water. I was thrilled to see it was not one but two Canadian geese! Not sure why they are here. They have usually headed north by now. Wouldn't you know....I didn't have my camera with the zoom lens. I watch the geese and notice something in the water with them. Oh my goodness! It's babies! I was ecstatic! I walk Kaidence back home and grab my SLR camera to go back to the cemetery for some pics! Hoping beyond hope that I didn't disturb them too bad the first time. I make it back to find they are still there! What a treat to watch these beautiful creatures!

It was so neat to see Mom and Dad watching over their young.

Aren't these little guys so cute?!

Even with my zoom lens they were not comfortable with me being there. They kept moving away from me.

 What are Father's "tokens of love" for you? What things bring you joy and pleasure? Is it a "hug from a friend", "'I love you' from your child", a "lick from from your canine companion?" I encourage you to begin to recognize Father's "tokens of love" to you then give Him thanks and praise for "He cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7).

Have a good one!