Handpicked

I have always loved traveling to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.  I think it’s absolutely beautiful, especially in the fall.  There’s just something about the vastness of the Smoky Mountains and the leaves changing colors that simply takes my breath away.  I remember one trip when my husband and I took some back roads to get to Gatlinburg and the moment the mountains came into our view.  Sisters, it was like God was talking to me at the very moment, and I was blown away at the beauty of His creation. 

The trip was one of rest and relaxation (and yes, some shopping!), and we went to one of my favorite places: The Apple Barn (Cider Mill & General Store).  I can easily get lost in there!  I bought apple bread, apple tea, and even apple chips, and then I made my way to the apples from the orchard.  Sisters, they were beautiful, too!  I carefully selected the apples I wanted to purchase, and so did my husband.  We handpicked the apples we wanted to buy.  They weren’t just tossed into our bag either.  We placed them carefully inside, and we were happy with our selections.

I didn’t think much about it at the time, but God revealed to me something about that process, the handpicking itself.  You see, there were hundreds of apples to choose from, and there was great variety in the sizes and colors.  I took my time in picking the apples I wanted; I didn’t just throw a few in a bag. 

He reminded me that I, too, was handpicked, but I was handpicked by Him.  And He took great time in forming and equipping me for His purpose and His pleasure.