How often have we heard the phrase 'streams in the desert'? At first it seems like a paradox. Nothing is more vital in the desert than water. 

   A bubbling brook that cascades from a mountain side is beautiful. 

   What is interesting is that they both embody a necessary fluid for survival, but one is much more of a commodity; that is water in a barren terrain.

   The familiar term of streams in the desert goes back to the origin of the Bible. (Isaiah 49:13)

   Have your dreams died? Are they buried beneath the dehydrated disappointments of the past? Don't lose hope, begin to dream again. You never know if there might be a trickling dribble just waiting to bubble over.

   Sandwiched between two images of fresh flowing water stands a barren tree; lifeless, a shell of what once was. The stark contrast reminds of of the reality of life and death.    

   There is expectation beyond this world. Heaven is the hope of that which is permanent. We are offered eternal life through Christ. Jesus said He is  the way, the truth and the life. No man comes to the Father but through Him. (John 14:6)

   Moss. What is it? 

   It grows in some of the most difficult terrains. The interesting fact about this plant is that they help to soak up rainfall, maintain moisture in the soil below and keep conditions around them humid. This enables other plants around them thrive, such as in habitats like marshes and woodland.  

   Mosses also play a vital role in the development of new ecosystems. They're among the first plant colonisers of disturbed sites, such as when an area is deforested or affected by forest fires. They stabilize the soil surface and retain water, helping new plants to grow. 

(https://www.kew.org/read-and-watch/moss)

   When we allow the life-giving power of Christ to flow out of us, we too can offer a  source of vitality and rejuvenation to those around us.

   Ever tried to catch a baby gosling while the Mother is close by? You might just discover that beak is a lot meaner than it looks. 

   I've seen it happen. What once seemed like a rather harmless creature, it goes into attack mode. It's quite the sight.

   Notoriously aggressive, Canada Geese won’t back down when they feel threatened. If an adult Canada Goose thinks its goslings or nest are in danger, it will stretch out its neck, spread its wings out wide, and hiss as it pumps its head up and down. They will also charge and even fly at a perceived threat, including humans. (https://www.audubon.org/news/10-fun-facts-about-canada-goose).

   How much more as humans should we be concerned about the welfare of one another. (Matthew 7:12)

   Oops! Ever had one of those days when everything seems upside down? Allow your circumstances to propel you into a greater purpose. 

   Mallard ducks forage for  various sorts of food under the water when they flip into a vertical position. We too can use the struggles of life to nourish us into stronger individuals. (James 1:2-4)

   We all have to start somewhere. Any time we embark on a new adventure, it's easy to feel small or unsure of our footing. 

   Baby ducklings need to stay with their mamas' approximately two months in order to survive. If an occurrence arises that causes panic, the mother can flee their little ones. (https://outdooralive.com/how-long-ducklings-stay-with-mother/)

   If you feel like you've been abandoned or insecure about your future there is a Father in heaven who knows your name and wants to guide you through life. (Romans 5:8)