Perhaps you, like me, are beginning a period of “self isolation.”  News of the coronavirus surrounds us.  The contagiousness of this virus is etched in our minds, whether from TV, newspapers, Facebook or other social media.  And, we are wise to take heed.

But, God’s beauty still surrounds us.  I took a walk through my neighborhood, trying to be more aware of the beauty around me.  The sky was that beautiful Florida blue, the air was warm but not too hot, and a gentle breeze refreshed.   The leaves were just emerging on the live oaks, their branches sweeping upwards, the bright sun shining through.   The Spanish moss hung gracefully from the branches, swaying lightly in the breeze.   The azaleas in full blossom caught the sun on their bright pink flowers.  The raven perched on the very tip of a tree, silhouetted against the sky.  All this beauty and I hadn’t even left the neighborhood.

I was reminded of the words of a dear old friend who told me that whenever she sees the sunshine, she is reminded of heaven.   What a beautiful thought of the light and glory of heaven.  The gospel of Matthew recounts, “After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them. His face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as the light.”  Matthew 17:1-2

We may be troubled and anxious, but let’s lift our eyes.  Look to the beauty in God’s creation.  Look to the light of God that surrounds us in unconditional love.  Yes His love is there, each and every day, for me and for you.

Judy