I’m joining Gypsy Mama’s 5 Minute Friday.  She provides the subject and we write for 5 minutes.  No editing, no prior thought to what we will write about … just write and see what happens.

Today’s subject:  Tender

Start: 5:16am

Tender makes me envision a young green shoot — a small leaf or bloom that has yet to unfold and reveal its beauty.  It contains wonder and elegance as it remains wrapped ever so tightly together.

Tender shoots that lay smooth and silky as they snuggle closely to the branches always capture my attention.   In my childhood, I loved to play with the tender Magnolia shoots in the Springtime.  They wore velvet coats, yet were crisp when snapped.

New growth is often tender.  Plants are tender before they become hardened and strong.   Animals are tender before they can defend themselves.  This state of tenderness leaves them vulnerable to the elements and vulnerable to predators.

On the other hand, a tender state can be a place of strength for some of us.

As Christians, it is a good thing to be tender.  It is a safe place to be a tender lump of clay on the Potter’s wheel.  When we surrender our wills and our desires to the Lord, we are tender and teachable.

It is good to have tender mercies for others as well.  Jesus exudes mercy and tenderness as He deals with those who are hurting.  We should follow His example and ask to have His heart for others.

Stop: 5:21am

Would you like to share what comes to your mind when you hear the word TENDER?  If so, click on Gypsy Mama’s button below and join us.

Have a blessed Friday everyone!

(Photo credit:  Young bud.)