The shuttle bus rounded a...
Illustration
The shuttle bus rounded a curve along the west rim of the Grand Canyon. The driver slowed then said, "Now, I have something special to show you."
What a set of contrasts: the edge of the Grand Canyon on one side and a simple agave plant on the other. Commonly known as the century plant, its base looked like a green lion's mane with skinny leaves forming a nest-like base on the ground.
That plant, the driver told us, had sent up a 15-foot spike within a week's time. Then, beautiful creamy white bIossoms covered the upper part of the spike. For nearly three weeks, it would offer its glory.
Then, spent, the entire plant would wither and return to the earth. The agave uses all of its energy, about 25 years, in the production of one full blossom.
The Creator is big enough to create a Grand Canyon and still not overlook a single century plant. The great and the humble, both celebrate inestimable worth.
The Micah Advent passage also fills us with unlikely contrasts and small beginnings: There will be the birth of the infant - certainly a small beginning with great promise. A significant ruler will emerge from a small Judean clan. A shepherd tending a flock stands in comparison to the majesty of God. Seven shepherds will rise against an Assyrian invasion.
- Brauninger
What a set of contrasts: the edge of the Grand Canyon on one side and a simple agave plant on the other. Commonly known as the century plant, its base looked like a green lion's mane with skinny leaves forming a nest-like base on the ground.
That plant, the driver told us, had sent up a 15-foot spike within a week's time. Then, beautiful creamy white bIossoms covered the upper part of the spike. For nearly three weeks, it would offer its glory.
Then, spent, the entire plant would wither and return to the earth. The agave uses all of its energy, about 25 years, in the production of one full blossom.
The Creator is big enough to create a Grand Canyon and still not overlook a single century plant. The great and the humble, both celebrate inestimable worth.
The Micah Advent passage also fills us with unlikely contrasts and small beginnings: There will be the birth of the infant - certainly a small beginning with great promise. A significant ruler will emerge from a small Judean clan. A shepherd tending a flock stands in comparison to the majesty of God. Seven shepherds will rise against an Assyrian invasion.
- Brauninger
