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 coined 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 streambed, keep the grazing cattle safe.
Bunnies and chipmunks play among the sheltering trees, reminding us that The
Aspen Chapelpresides 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.
-Thomas Kinkade
Thomas Kinkade was America's most collected living artist, a
painter-communicator whose tranquil, light infused paintings bring hope and joy
to millions each year. Each painting Thomas Kinkade created is a quiet
messenger in the home, affirming the basic values of family, faith in God, and
the luminous beauty of nature. A devoted husband and doting father to their
daughters, Kinkade hid the letter "N" in his paintings to pay tribute
to his wife, Nanette. The girls names can also be found in many of his paintings.
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