Many days of heavy rain had changed the  forestry road where we take our white Maltese terrier Char-Lee for a daily walk.

       There were leaves and broken sticks and small bushes had begun to grow in the road’s centre where clay pools still remained. 

         From a distance I could see a black stick obstructing the path I was walking.

     Char-Lee saw the stick and raced forward excitedly  and grabbed it.

      I watched as she suddenly then began to pull it out of the bush , her excitement heightened by the game. 

      When I saw the stick move I knew it was not a stick and ran forward calling urgently. ‘ Drop it! Come to me NOW! ‘

       Thank God! She obeyed me and ran to me as the full body of the black snake uncurled.  It’s reptilian head was now clearly evident.  It was swaying as if preparing to strike.

        It was ebony black and about 2 metres long, It slithered away at lightening speed.

        We watched it disappear into the scrub, me with relief. and Char-Lee now needing discipline to stop her tracking it down.

        Just like issues of life.   So many of today’s young people simply are ignorant of dangers their seniors are trying to warn them about.

           This walk was prayerfully reflective for me.    I thanked God we were safe but I also, with gratitude, remembered the times in my life when I have been attracted by things that looked harmless but could have taken my life in a wrong direction.

            Thank God we as followers of the Saviour holding on to Him and walking in the light,

 with the WORD to educate us, God the Holy Spirit to warn us. are free to make our own right choices.

           Meditating on ……when is a stick not a stick?

            The words from the hymn “Amazing Grace” kept resonating in my heart.

              Through many dangers, toils and snares, I have already come, I’ve no less days to sing God’s Praise than when I first begun.

              Praise God!  Praise God! Praise God!

                      A-Men          

OUR Saviour’s Priceless GIFT!