In the mornings when my sweet hubby puts on his farm coat and heads toward the pasture, our cattle get excited — really excited. These massive beasts are just sure that the little human in the brown coat has something good in store for them. (Because he often does, of course.) They start their bellowing and bawling and execute their very best version of running: boxy, awkward, bovine running. It’s a sight. Some mornings I get the giggles just watching their giddy anticipation from the window: picture small children on Christmas morning — in 1000-pound bodies!

This morning is no different. The front door opens, Farmer Doug steps out, and the big mamas, the tiny calves, and even the bull are racing each other to see just what delight is heading their way. Today, however, is not a treat bucket day. Instead, the plan de jour is pasture rotation. The weather has turned chilly these past few weeks and good grass is becoming scarce. But there is still one area left that has an abundance of juicy, green goodness, and that is precisely where they are headed. They just don’t know it yet.

Doug opens the gate and walks in the direction he wants them to follow. The older beasts quickly realize that they have just been led into the Promised Land and start chowing down with enthusiasm. But one of the younger heifers is confused. She follows my hubby for quite some time, attention fixated on his empty bucket and clearly disturbed that nothing yummy is coming out of it. He talks to her as he walks down the driveway, going about his business, all the while wondering when she will realize that the treasure is not in the bucket — it’s under her feet! She’s standing right in the middle of it! She has just been led into green pastures. Stop chasing the empty bucket and start feasting, silly beast!

I can be so very like that dear heifer. I see some way in which I have been blessed in the past. I think I see another opportunity coming and grab ahold, pursuing it doggedly. I’m determined to get that prize that I’ve experienced before. I am disappointed, frustrated, or even angry when the goodness I’m looking for (relief, comfort, understanding, provision, escape) just isn’t seeming to materialize like it did the last time. What gives, God?! I thought this was how you meet my needs? Why isn’t it working this time? Again and again, the Lord has to re-direct my gaze — usually to the most obvious thing, right under my nose. I am certainly still providing for you, dear one. Look around. Yesterday’s bucket is empty, but today’s field is fresh and full.