I read a quote today that struck me as so fitting. It puts a whole new perspective on the faith life.
“When the future seems uncertain and all you see is darkness, you have something you don’t have during times of tranquility: the opportunity to trust in Jesus.” Gary Zimac from his book Stop Worrying and Start Living
I Found God today being grateful for the uncertainty allowing me to grow in faith.
We took advantage of the mild weather today and got out of the house. We took a drive to a park in the middle of the city that was one of our favorite places for many years. The winding road took us to the top of the bluffs overlooking the city. Once there, we parked and walked on the paved path to get the best view. It was beautiful. We pointed out landmarks and realized how much the city has grown. On the way back to the car, we heard and saw a drone flying overhead. As we approached the parking lot, we saw the operator on the sidewalk with controller in hand. We watched him for a while and was impressed as he landed the drone on the walk right in front of him. It just so happened that he was parked right next to us. As he came over, my dad told him he liked his “fancy gadget”. We chatted with him and his brother for a while. They said they were from Chicago and were enjoying getting pictures of the beautiful Colorado scenery. We wished each other well before we parted ways. It was so good to get out of the house, enjoy the fresh air, and have an interesting conversation with a stranger.
I Found God today enjoying a day out.
When I opened the blinds this morning, the sun was shining brightly. I thanked God for the morning and the start to another day as I prayed for His grace to live it well. “This is the day the Lord has made. Let us be glad and rejoice in it.” Psalm 118:24. This evening I went for a walk. As the sun set, I watched the clouds change from hints of pink to full blown orange and red set off by blue sky in the gaps. It’s as if God was saying, “I’m right here. Everything will be OK.” I thanked God for the spectacular scene and for the peace only He can provide.
I Found God today in the grace and beauty of another day.
Today I received an unexpected note from a friend. But, this wasn’t just any note. It was full of joyful memories, faith, and encouragement. I was immediately brought back to happy and spiritual times with them. I was grateful and humbled that they would take the time to reach out in this way. I had just talked to my mom earlier in the day about relationships. She stayed in touch with a friend she knew since she was 5 years old. I don’t know anyone that long, but there are certainly people that I will stay in touch with for the rest of my life. My note-sender is definitely one of those people.
I Found God today in an unexpected note of encouragement.
The past few days have been filled with unrest. I heard in a homily today what has been repeated by many faithful friends that as Christians, we need to remember that our hope and trust is not in a governmental system, a political party, or the things we read or hear in forms of media. Our hope and trust is not even in a pastor, a family member, or a beloved person. Our hope and trust is in the Lord. He has given us the perfect example to follow and has promised us the perfect ending if only we follow Him. In John 14:6, Jesus proclaims, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” I know that when I hope and trust in Him, I have more peace. And that is what we all need more of.
I Found God today in a reminder to hope and trust in Him.
A friend shared some words of wisdom today. I have heard this before, but it seems very relevant right now:
Practice the Pause.
Pause before judging.
Pause before assuming.
Pause before accusing.
Pause whenever you are about to react harshly and you will avoid doing and saying things you will regret later.
I had heard another version of this as well:
Practice the Pause.
When in doubt, pause.
When angry, pause.
When tired, pause.
When stressed, pause.
And when you pause, pray.
I think the world could use a little pause right now. Pause, breathe, and pray.
I Found God today in a reminder to pause.
My sister came over today and was a huge help in getting some things accomplished. My dad has been working on putting together a scrapbook with photos and information about the cabin. She helped him get tons of pictures sorted out. She helped my mom water her orchids and get some laundry done. I snuck out for a bit and helped my son finish putting up the curtains that arrived the other day. Not only was she very helpful with tasks, it was nice to have her company and conversation. It was an engaging, productive day for all.
I Found God today in a helpful sister.
One of my mottos is “carpe diem” – seize the moment. When an opportunity presents itself to accomplish something, take care of something, or do something, I try to take advantage of it. Usually we are able to spend at least a few minutes in the morning sunshine. But this morning was cloudy and cold. However, after lunch the sun started peeking out. My parents laid down for a nap, but I didn’t want to let the moment pass without enjoying it. So I put on my tennis shoes and went for a walk. It was wonderful. I was glad to carpe solis and enjoy the time in the warmth of the sunshine.
I Found God today enjoying the time that the sun shone outside.
With all the chaos that ensued today, I was encouraged to find consolation with my friends on social media. One particular item that was shared was a song released today by Steven Curtis Chapman, “A Desperate Benediction”. On his Youtube introduction of the song, he says in part, ” . . . ultimately, I believe that true peace…the peace that transcends all understanding and guards our hearts and minds…comes from the Prince of peace, Jesus Christ. So it is with a heavy yet hopeful heart that I share this new song with you…as a prayer…a cry…a Desperate Benediction for all of us….praying for peace, and praying that it starts with me, with you, with each of us.” I listened to the beautiful song. Then I realized that I had worn all day my shirt that says, “Peace” and had thrown on my scarf that said the same thing as I went out doing errands. I guess I was advocating for peace even before the craziness started at the capitol.
I Found God today in a beautiful song reminding me that peace begins with me.
I was chatting with a friend today who has had many struggles during the past year, like so many others, and the difficulties continue. As I have talked with friends, many have expressed a more active prayer life as a result of the stress. Her description really touched my heart. She seems, ” . . . to have sort of an ongoing conversation with God all day long.” How beautiful. How necessary. How loving.
I Found God today in a day of prayer.
Still Finding God 