I was up early and, on the road, while darkness still veiled the land. Dawn however soon began to creep its way along the eastern horizon, its progress transforming that which was devoid of colour into a vivid pallet of pinks, yellows, blues and purples. The sun, a golden orb, from which the radiance of the morning sprang, rose slowly, continuing to paint the vastness of the heavens in dazzling array for the next half hour.
“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” (Psalm 19:1 NIV)
Indeed, they do and as they did that morning, I was struck anew by the marvelous opportunity each new day affords to all those who rise to meet it. For just as the sky revealed the glory of colour emanating from the sun, so each new day offers us the glory of God’s presence with us. His presence which is able to paint the drabbest chore, the darkest moment with the colours of His love, power, strength, and encouragement. That which does not stir our hearts to enthusiasm and joy can be transformed into tasks of purpose and witness as we remember, “…whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Colossians 3:17 NIV)
Today might be the day, when the heavy burden we have been asked to carry is lifted.
Today might be the day when the dream we have harboured and worked toward may become reality.
Today might be the day when what the world sees as darkness and purposeless befalls us. Yet even in this we can be assured that God’s purpose is in all things and His glory will light our way to see us through.
We do not know what this new day will bring. We can know however, that He does, and that He is more than able to not only glorify Himself amidst whatever transpires, but to also infuse that glory with our very own hearts and minds through the power of His Holy Spirit within us: an action that grows, matures and strengthens us to be more and more like our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Today, may we too declare the glory of God as we allow the radiance of His love to shine through in all that we do. May the transformation of our lives, through our relationship with Jesus Christ, proclaim the work of His Spirit within us, that those around us may also, one day, declare the glory of God for all that He has done for them too.
Prayer: Father God, thank You for the glory of this new day and the wonderful opportunities it affords to each one of us to know and grow in You. In Christ’s name. Amen.
Lynne Phipps
Tawatinaw, Alberta, Canada