Yesterday, as I was biking [my form of transit for this period] home from Main Street along the Katy Trail I was praying to God for answers. As the trees canopied above me allowing a soft summer breeze to pass between their branches and the light that escaped through the leaves projected a whimsical pattern upon the gravel, time froze and the reality before me blurred out of view. I cried out to God for answers, for direction, with ideas and with struggles.
An abrasive scattering of leaves brought reality back into focus just as the hooves of a deer scattered into the forest. I found my self at a loss for how I had not even noticed the figure before me as I cried out to God. I had gone unaware of its grazing amongst the foliage that lined the trail. I had not stopped at a distance to admire the simplicity of its beauty. In focusing on ‘what’s next’ I had missed the precious gift God had placed before me.
Since returning home I have surrounded my nephew with more hugs and kisses, and taught him how to make animals out of leaves. I ha given my grandma a hug so longed for that I only let go so we could begin cooking her famous zucchini bread. I have ventured to favorite spots in town, met my best friends baby, caught up with friends, learned news of weddings and of heartaches, and in all this what have I missed in the moments where my mind wanders to ‘what’s next?’ What, of the many things God has taught me of his provision this year, have I put aside in moments of longing for direction. How many simplistic moments of seeing God’s majesty have gone unnoticed, because I compared them to the places I wish to return to rather than thanking God for where he has me.
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.”
Matthew 6:33-34
When we place our focus on seeing further down the path God has for us our vision is blurred, and we fail to see the deer just before us. The challenge is in seeing this time at home as more than the ‘in-between’. For every passing moment has purpose, thus, let our prayer be to put as much value in this moment as in the journey that brought us here and the journey ahead. For God whispers, ‘See the deer, my beloved? I have set it before you for just this moment, will you open your eyes to see it’s beauty. ‘
Reflection:
Have you just returned from the race or in a period of transition? Where are you? Are you able to see the beauty in the journey God has you on right now? Ask God to open your eyes to the precious gifts he places before you each day.
On American Soil
I apologize for the lack of blogs over the last two months. I hope to have you caught up on Swaziland, Lesotho, and South Africa soon.
Also, as you may have noticed, I am back in the states. I would love to meet up with you and swap stories of how God moved mountains and pursued us through the valleys this year.
Email: [email protected]
Skype: kaylahphotography
