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Last month, I received many comments thanking me for my "sermons" as written in my greetings. While I am not so certain I want to or am qualified to give sermons, I do hope that my musings about God are entertaining and helpful in your life as well!

Recently, I have been pondering anew the question, "How does someone become a person after God's own heart?" This question has been nagging me for quite some time, years really, and I think God has used our baby ducklings to give me the answer...let me explain:

As many of you know, God Himself referred to David as "a man after my own heart" in 1 Samuel 13:14 and as referenced in Acts 13:22. It seemed obvious that in order to answer my question, I might start with studying King David, so, this summer, I am participating in a Bible study called, "David, Developing a Heart for God," by Jack Kuhatschek.

As I have studied David, I have been amazed at the contrast between his obvious humanity (as evidenced by his grievous sins) and his heart for God. In his bad times, I find David a pure example of my own nature; self-focused, independent and rash. In his good times, however, he is an example of mercy, forgiveness, love and compassion...he actually foreshadows Christ in these moments. Why such contrast, I wonder? Here is where the ducklings come in...

A mother mallard was nesting at our 101 site this spring and was sadly eaten by a raccoon. Fortunately, the eggs were not harmed and we found them quickly and began incubating them. Nearly 3 weeks later, God blessed us when all 6 of the eggs hatched.The baby ducklings are named Frisky, Peepers I-IV, and Lucky.  

It has been a joy raising our little ducklings, especially since they imprinted on us and think of us as their mother. In fact, they follow us wherever we go. If we get out of their sight, they squawk and peep and run around in frenzied circles looking for us. When we are not present, they remain on alert, patrolling their little cage looking for us, never at rest until they have spotted us and leapt into our laps. It seems they are never truly content unless they are close to us.

Therein lies the answer to my question; the way to become a person after God's own heart is to "imprint" on God as our Father.

What does this look like? Well, that's a question I can't leave unanswered, but this greeting is already too long.

Our next e-newsletter will arrive the first week of August and I'll do my best to share what I think "imprinting" on God looks like.

In the meantime, feel free to let me know what you think "imprinting" on God looks like. You can send your thoughts to markh@themustardseedinc.com

Until next time, may you seek God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength...if you do, He promises you will find Him!!!

God Bless!

Mark Halla

Steward

The Mustard Seed Landscaping & Garden Centers