Foggy Mountain Reflection

It was wonderful to feel the presence of God while looking up at the magical sight of the Beech Mountain ski resort with the morning fog lingering at the top. On this crisp September morning, for a few precious moments, the world seemed clean. There was no corona virus, no divisiveness, no hate, no pain. All was well with the world as I breathed in deeply the fresh mountain air.

Jesus’ words from Matthew 26:64, when asked if He was indeed the Son of God seem apropos for this moment. Jesus said: “But I say to all of you; From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven”.

The words from Mark 13:26 also are appropriate when enjoying this fog-filled mountain top. Speaking of the end of times, Mark writes: “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory”.

Soon the fog burned away, a new day began, and the realities of our world set in. I think of two good friends who have recently died from Covid. I mourn; I question; and I listen for God’s soothing reassurance. Paul’ words help from 1 Thessalonians 3:17-18 when he said that believers “will be caught up together…in the clouds to meet the Lord…Therefore, encourage one another with these words”.

I Found Him on a gorgeous, foggy morning on Beech Mountain.

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I Found Him...Waterfalls Video

I Found Him-Clematis

Sometimes what one hears or even sees is simply not believable, but it is true. From this close-up image alone, for example, it is difficult to imagine that it is from a Clematis vine; a vine that has a dense mat of leaves that is ideal on trellises, fences, and walls. We may doubt this truth until we can see the entire vine.

“Doubting Thomas” initially did not believe that Jesus had risen from the dead when he heard it from other disciples. It’s regrettable that this nickname stuck because who would not have doubted this story? John 20:27-29 (NIV) describes what happened when Thomas did indeed see Jesus: “Then He said to Thomas, ‘put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe’. Thomas said to Him, ‘My Lord and my God’. Then Jesus told him, ‘Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed’”.

None of us have seen Jesus and if honest, most have doubts. Are we “Doubting Thomas’s” or are we willing to accept the account of those who did see Jesus? Jesus said, “blessed are those who have not seen and yet believed”.

Although this image does not look like a Clematis, it is. And even though we did not physically see Jesus rise from the dead, He did!

I Found Him…in the extreme close-up view of a beautiful flowering vine.

I Found Him-He Lives-Easter 2020

He lives! He lives! Christ Jesus lives today! He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives withing my heart! (Chorus of the hymn "He Lives") Happy Easter!

I Found Him-Tulips

A breathtaking sea of color abounds at this Eastern NC flower farm filled with gorgeous tulips. As beautiful as they are, though, we know that soon the flowers with wither away.

Biblical analogies of flowers falling from their stems as seasons change teaches that change does occur, but one truth remains steadfast—God’s love for us. 1 Peter 1:22-25 states; “Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart. For you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. For ‘All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers in the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord endures forever’”.

We live in unbelievably uncertain times. Covid 19 continues to spread, most are under “Stay at Home” orders, and life as we knew it no longer exists. Material possessions that we once thought were so important seem less so now. Relationships matter more. Take comfort in knowing that God’s love endures.

Pray that when this virus is contained that we will emerge stronger in our love for God and in our love for each other. Pray that old wounds heal, divides come together, and that a revival in our hearts will spread throughout the world faster than any virus.

I Found Him in a spectacular field of tulips.

I Found Him-Eagle-COVID-19

A Bald Eagle majestically perches on the branch of a pine tree on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. He seems to exude strength, confidence, and power.

We face unprecedented times as we battle COVID-19. Virtually all sporting events are cancelled, schools, offices and churches are closing trying to curb the spread of this highly contagious disease. “Social Distancing” is now a thing. Hand sanitizers are simply nowhere to be found and people are inexplicably stock-piling toilet paper. The stock market is dropping at an historic pace causing retirees who depend on their 401K’s much stress and anxiety.

If there is a silver-lining in this global emergency, it is that it gives us time to pause, to reevaluate priorities, to examine our souls. We can find comfort in the Bible. Isaiah 40:31 says: “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength! They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint”.

My prayer is that common sense will prevail, that we will avoid close contact with people, wash our hands often, and certainly not go out if symptoms appear. I also pray that employers will sustain affected employees.

Be comforted by Isaiah’s words in Isaiah 41:10 “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you…”

I Found Him…while observing an eagle perched in a pine tree.

I Found Him-Forest

I never tire of witnessing the awe-inspiring beauty of God’s creation. The God-painted colors in this Vermont forest are truly breathtaking. With this pure beauty in mind, it truly saddens me to think of the wildfires ravaging thousands of acres on the west coast. Not only are the forests devastated, but the human and wildlife toll is immeasurable. These horrific fires start many times by a single spark.

Similarly, for us, often-times a small action has huge consequences. James, Jesus’ brother, writes in James 3:5-7 (NIV): “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is also a fire…It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell… (The tongue) is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”

Flip Wilson‘s famous words “the devil made me do it” apply here. The devil, working on us, causes us to say things that we regret; hurtful things. James continues in verse 10: “Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing, My brothers, this should not be”.

Ill-spoken words, spontaneous words of anger, have long-lasting negative effects on relationships, families, friendships, and even countries. Fight the devil; slow down, breathe deeply, and think before speaking. Avoid the figurative spark that can burn an entire forest.

I Found Him…on a beautiful fall day in Vermont.

I Found Him-Dairy Farm

Signs of a changing season abound on this beautiful Vermont dairy farm. The changing colors of the leaves signify that fall is here and that winter is not far behind. The beauty of this season is bittersweet in that we know that a cold, harsh New England winter surely will follow. We have faith, however, that spring will come again; that the snow and ice will melt, and that once again, new growth and mild temperatures will replace the cold, dark season of winter.

What a great lesson God teaches those who simply contemplate the changing seasons. As the popular verse in Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV) proclaims, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven”. Indeed, we all go through different seasons in our lives, we weep and we laugh, we mourn and we dance, we scatter stones and we gather them, we are silent and we speak, we love and we hate.

Through it all, believers we have FAITH. We believe that new growth will emerge, that our faith will mature. Paul teaches in Ephesians 3:12 (NIV) “In Him and through faith in Him we may approach God with freedom and confidence”. Wow! Let us all learn and take comfort that through faith, regardless of the season that we find ourselves, that we can approach God with freedom and confidence. We know that in God’s infinite wisdom, a new season awaits.

I Found Him…in beautiful Vermont.

The Margaretsville Lighthouse, built in 1859, still operates today along the coast of Nova Scotia. Its original oil lamp was replaced after over 100 years by an electrical one in 1963. This lighthouse, along with thousands of others throughout the world, offers a great service to ships sailing through treacherous waters; shining light on dangerous paths.

We too have a light that shines when we stray onto dangerous, sinful waters -a conscience. God gave us this “warning light” to help us follow Him. Even if the conscience is dulled and darkened by sin, it still shines, nudging us back to a Godlier path. God’s light shines, guiding us away from the dark, sinful paths.

Proverb 20:27 (The Living Bible”) says: “A man’s conscience is the Lord’s searchlight exposing his hidden motives”. In other words, a conscience is God’s way of keeping us focused and centered as we navigate a perilous world. In 1 Timothy 1:19 (The Living Bible) Paul instructs Timothy (and us) to “Cling tightly to your faith in Christ and always keep your conscience clear, doing what you know is right. For some people have disobeyed their consciences and have deliberately done what they know is wrong. It isn’t surprising that they lost their faith in Christ after defying God like that”.

Follow the light of Christ as it is emitted by your conscience and allow the love of God to shine in you.

I Found Him…as a lighthouse boldly guards a Nova Scotian coastline.

I Found Him-Nova Scotia Coast

What a joy it is to step away from the details of day to day life and look at the world from a different perspective. Breathing the cool air along the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, viewing this beautiful vista, allowed me to put aside my problems, burdens, and concerns and simply enjoy the moment.

God intends for us to change our perspective, to look to Him rather than ourselves. Daily routines, to-do lists, and schedules often dominate us. Look at the world from a different view and realize that God sees the big picture.

When we are depressed or angry, look to Him

When we are overwhelmed by life’s minutia, look to Him.

When we face new challenges, look to Him.

When we are tempted, look to Him

By changing our perspective and focusing on the big picture-everlasting life through Jesus Christ-joy emerges; and joy will overwhelm our earthly issues.

Paul says in Colossians 3:2 (NIV) “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” Look at the world as if you were on the top of a mountain as in this picture. Look to God, change the perspective, consider the big picture. Take comfort from the words in Psalms 138:7 (NIV) “Though I walk in the mist of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out Your hand against the anger of my foes, with Your right hand You save me”.

I Found Him…in the beautiful Nova Scotia coast.

I Found Him-Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is a 2,200+/- mile marked hiking trail that extends between Georgia and Maine. It is considered the longest hiking-only trail in the world with an estimated 2 million+ people hiking on part of the trail at least once each year. Although I only hiked a very short distance, many hike the entire 2,200 miles continuously (“Thru-Hikers”) in one season. Others, when completing the entire hike, turn around and thru-hike the trail the other way, known as a "yo-yo". To complete this hike in any manner takes great perseverance, discipline, and self-control.

These same traits are required to be a follower of Jesus. Hebrews 12:1-2 sets a very clear vision: “…let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…”. Just as the hikers enjoy the journey but have their eyes set on the completion point of their hike, so should we enjoy every day without letting our eyes stray from our finish line—Jesus! We, like the hikers, face obstacles along the way, we grow weary, we often have doubts and consider taking the easy path. Resist that temptation. Hebrews 12:3 (NIV) offers encouragement: “Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart”.

With Jesus’ help we can persevere. Keep your eyes on Jesus!

I Found Him…along the Appalachian Trail.

I Found Him...Wind Swept Trees

Trees along the North Carolina coast have withstood hurricanes, nor’easters, thunderstorms and strong winds for years. They bend, adapt, and bounce back after virtually every storm.

Faith is very similar. We all face trails, rough spots, and events that test our faith. It is those with deep roots who weather these storms and bounce back. James, the brother and disciple of Jesus, explains in James 1:2-4 (NIV) how to face the trials that we face: “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trails of many kinds, because that you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything”.

Just as these trees have deep, well established roots, we too must rely on our roots of faith and develop perseverance. James continues in verses 6 & 12 “But he who asks, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God had promised to those who love him”.

Although not easy, embrace life’s storms, keep your faith, and grow perseverance. God promises that we will emerge stronger. Although we sway, we bounce back and continue to grow—through faith.

I Found Him…Among the swaying coastal trees.

I Found Him...Mountain Sunset

Another day ends as the sun majestically sets behind the mountains at the Skyline Drive in Virginia. Watching the sun slowly creep behind the mountain surrounded by vibrant yellows and oranges certainly is an awe inspiring experience.

The day ends and we rest with hope and anticipation of a new day coming. Many carry burdens and struggles and long for a new start tomorrow; one with assurance, peace and hope. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV) “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light”.

This gorgeous sunset represents a new opportunity for believers. The issues, heartaches, concerns, and troubles burn away with the descending sun. As the psalmist in Psalm 46:1 (NIV) says: “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble”. So many people try to handle this complex life on their own without God. But they struggle. Those who follow Jesus’ command of “Come to me” have a much better chance. Joy, peace and comfort awaits. So lean on Jesus; allow Him to carry your load. As the sun sets tonight, let your troubles go with the sun and know that through Jesus, tomorrow WILL be better.

I Found Him…surrounded by the beautiful colors of a spectacular sunset.

I Found Him...Dandelion Flower

Dandelions and their flowers are a nuisance that litters our yards in the spring. Up close, however, its bright yellow petals are quite pretty. Their beauty lasts only a short time before they wither away, however. They come and go and are forgotten.

The Bible uses the analogy of flowers withering to describe people and our priorities. Peter describes what it is like to accept Jesus, to trust Him, and put our faith and trust in Him alone. In 1 Peter 1:23-24 (Living Bible) he says “For you have a new life. It is not passed on to you from your parents, for the life they gave you will fade away. This new one will last forever, for it comes from Christ, God’s ever-living Message to men. Yes, our natural lives will fade as grass does when it becomes all brown and dry. All our greatness is like a flower that droops and falls; but the Word of the Lord will last forever…”

This does not imply being unambitious or not striving to excel. The issue arises when people put those goals ahead of God’s. Serving God and living our lives according to His will is our first priority.

1 Peter 2:2 (Living Bible) “Now that you realize how kind the Lord has been to you, put away all evil, deception, envy, and fraud. Long to grow up into the fullness of your salvation…”

I Found Him…watching a wild dandelion flower quickly bloom and wither away.

I Found Him...Rope

A rope consists of many smaller strands of fiber, when woven together, are much stronger than any one strand by itself. And a knot becomes even stronger as the two ends are pulled apart, the knot grows tighter.

People of God are undoubtedly the same. As Paul said in 1 Corinthians 12:14 (NIV) “For the body is not made up of one part, but many.” The body of Christ is not one person, but all of us, working together toward the same goal. We are much stronger, when we work together in unity. Harmony depends on teamwork; and harmony is required to do God's will. As others try to pull us apart, let’s grow even tighter, focused together on God’s work.

Paul instructed the Corinthians in 1 Corinthians 1:10 (NIV) “I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there will be no divisions among you and that you will be perfectly united in mind and thought."

The divisiveness in our world, country, churches and families is indeed making us weak. It’s time that we join together as one, all pulling together, to accomplish the work that God has laid out for us. Together, we can! Single strands of fiber are weak, but woven together into a rope, is virtually unbreakable. So it is with us!

I Found Him…studying the small individual strands that make the rope so formidable.