"The poet reminds us that "only God can make a tree." On a recent hiking
excursion to Hope Valley in the Sierra Mountains, I was struck once again
by the glory of aspen trees, which bear such graceful witness to His great
love. During autumn in the mountains, stands of aspen shimmer in the breeze
like liquid gold. I say "liquid" because the delicate leaves rustle and
flicker as they dance with the wind just as water does.
A wise minister of my acquaintance coned the word "gracelets" for the
small blessings God bestows upon us. When I enjoy the golden dance of the
aspen leaves, I know just what he meant.
A grove of aspens high in the mountains would be an idyllic place for
worship. I have imagined just such a church in The Aspen Chapel. Built of
weathered stone and whitewashed planks, it has offered sanctuary for many
seasons.
Ancient stone fences, made from rocks that line the stream bed, keep
the grazing cattle safe. Bunnies and chipmunks play among the sheltering
trees, reminding us that The Aspen Chapel presides over a peaceable
kingdom hidden away amongst the golden forests.
I offer you the fond hope that in in the enjoyment of The Aspen Chapel
we can share in the joy of one of God's myriad gracelets."
