Tip of My Iceberg

My neighbor Ed came by the house the other day, urging me to come outside to see something.

I was getting ready to go somewhere. My time was limited, but he was graciously insistent. So I followed him outside.

I was so glad I did.

The sky was looped in a remarkable double rainbow that was far more brilliant than any I’d seen in a long time. It had been drizzly all day, one of those murky days, and the sun had come out only intermittently. 

My hurry vanished; the pause was a moment to enjoy and appreciate what evaporated soon after that. Color splashed across the sky with the bold strokes of the Master Painter.

Gratitude. Some things must be seen at the moment.

Wait and watch. Be filled with wonder.

I’m not very good at that. Especially lately. I carry around anxiety like it’s my backpack of choice. Not that I’m a nervous or fearful person. But every day brings new concerns, a new awareness of how this year isn’t turning out the way any of us expected. I’m limited with what I can do in light of all that is happening.

Life around us happens no matter our concerns or fears. The sun still rises, even if I can’t see it. The miracle of life continues with flowers blooming, beautiful leaves falling, and winter coming. 

With this being Thanksgiving week, I’ve wanted to turn my attention to gratitude. To observe what I can be thankful for and choose not to be anxious about the things over which I have no control.

COVID. Politics. The economy. 

I can’t affect change in any of these things. I can be aware and helpful, do my part responsibly with a heart to help others. 

I can be grateful for what I do have. 

Jesus reminded us that we shouldn’t worry about tomorrow because each day has enough trouble of its own. We can plan, prepare, and be aware, but worrying isn’t something we need to waste our time with. 

How can I say this with COVID numbers increasing daily? With more people around the world affected by this virus? With the economy of every country affected by this global crisis?

God.

It takes courage and boldness to believe what He tells us. But those who believe in God have experienced Him and know that what He talks about is true. My life has been changed by who He is and what He has done for me. No crutch, no rationalization, no pie in the sky.

My life has been changed by His presence with me.

Does that mean I live consistently with that in mind?

No.

I forget. I get caught up in the moment. In the anxiety of what is. In the fear of what might be.

Jesus knows my limitations and weaknesses. He said, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” Matthew 6:33. 

Rainbows have always been the reminder that there’s hope at the end of the storm. 

We need to grab onto that because storms happen. Always.

Under His rainbow is real hope.