Christian Living

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It is a privilege to wake to the softness and beauty of the mauve roses on my pillowcase, and seems an honor to take my time greeting the new day. Propped on the couch viewing the energetic twitching and running and pouncing of squirrels and chipmunks around our majestic oak trees, I can't help but notice the contrasting quiet repose of ducks and swans feeding on the lake.

I am fortunate to be able to walk the sandy road as the sun continues to rise, feel the strength of my stride, and breathe in crisp air no longer laden with summer’s humidity. To view patches of bright red and gold leaves across the lake, like gems in a forest of green, and know that such introductory color is a promise of much more to come. To watch and feel the wind carving a slow motion “moving picture” on the surface of the lake as it deliberately pushes so many little ripples from west to east - from the edges of the wild, untamed shoreline bordered by cattails all the way to those people waiting in their homes and cottages on the other side. To hear the crow persistently cawing his synchronized and raspy cry as he tries to share with me his view of the wind's artistry from some higher perspective.

It is a privilege to know peace, to put aside grievances, and instead, to bask in hope. It is a blessing to be here, to realize these things, to enjoy quietness in spirit and soul, to be able to receive it all. Another day may not be like this one, but rather may be crowded with issues and circumstances that call me away from inner tranquility. If only I can learn these lessons from today: to rest internally, to inhale God’s goodness and appreciate the ongoing promise of His beauty, to wait on the constant and persistent movement and prodding of the Holy Spirit in my life, and to hear His voice within my heart.

It is a privilege to be alive. I can see that, touch that, know that this morning. If only I can own this fact, and not forget.

copyright Beth Muehlhausen 2005

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