I run up the steps to the gate where my love is waiting, Jesus. I kneel at his feet. He bends down, taking hold of my shoulders and lifts me to stand before him.

“My dear, stand. You are not a servant to kneel, but my sister, my bride to stand beside and before me.” He kneels in front of me and I feel awkward. “I am here to raise you up. I serve you as your leader, your example. This service is in proper order and appropriate. You will get to serve others in the same manner. Have I not said that if I wash your feet, then you are my disciple? The leader serves the subordinate and in return the subordinate serves others “under” them. This produces a shift in the culture and atmosphere. It changes mindsets to focus on others. Then, I can serve the needs of each individual as they focus on others. The more focused on serving others, the less prone people are to being concerned about their own needs. Take care of others and let me take care of you.

“Trust me. Don’t let your faith waver. It really will all turn out fine. My plan will work out well for each of you, exactly as I planned it.”

“Thank you my Lord.” He stands and wraps me in a warm embrace. I realize we have risen above the ground and grin. That’s Jesus, my Jesus, who grants these small details, these small pleasures that mean so much to me. He knows me so well, my love does.

We fly over to an emerald mountain. I notice we are now clothed in emerald also. “Lord, what is the significance of this?”

“It is growth, deep, rich growth. Linger here a while and let the nourishment penetrate deep as it will be a source to fall back on when times are lean.”

We touch down in a lush alpine meadow with deep green grass and small white flowers. The air is crisp, yet warm enough, bringing with it a sharp clarity. I notice a small hut to one side and a dark forest around. If this is to be my home for the next while, I figure I should get to work, but linger a while in the field, enjoying the sight and smell and texture of the verdant grass and picturesque scenery.

Eventually, I make my way to the cabin and a spry old man waits for me there. He shows me around briefly and then gestures towards the day’s work. We soon settle into a comfortable rhythm and the hours pass quickly. Not much is said and we eat our dinner near the fireplace in relaxed silence, just enjoying each other’s company.