Into the Fire

What is it that turns your heart toward God? So many different persuasions for believers . . . . Music? Flowers? Animals? Books? Mountains? Desert?

Today our resident red-tailed hawk flew overhead with her offspring, her shrill cry soothing instead of warning. They were floating on a current of air, their wings spread and unmoving as they soared together. The sunlight, which has been very faint and often absent this Spring, gleamed through her red tail, making it look translucent against the tropical blue of a sky which had banished the clouds for today. Gorgeous. All of it.

And I thanked God for His impeccable beauty in creating magnificence amidst a fallen earth. When I walked in the front door the late-blooming rhododendrons which have become a tree forced me to notice their brilliant untainted neon pink. And I thanked God for his richness in the creation of colors so vibrant they seem unreal.

I let the sun turn my legs red without regard for ultraviolet rays as I read a novel I’ll review for you—or for me—next week. I need some color since we’re headed to Louisiana later this week to a reunion for my husband’s family. Our two horses arrived to graze in the front pasture and pricked their ears as I talked to them, calling them by the names they’ve learned are theirs. Their coats are finally slick and shiny, assuring me that summer will come. Eventually. Thoroughbreds are beautiful, and these two are no exception. And I thanked God for them.

Whatever it is that makes you grateful, that turns your heart acutely in the direction of the One true God, His flawless artistry in a sinful world emanating his beauty and depth . . . whatever it is, embrace it/them. Hold them in your heart and give thanks. Often. Repeatedly. Endlessly. For He is good and His love endures forever.

Thank you, Father, Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, Holy Spirit.

*Please continue to pray for Kristy Dykes and her family.*