Think on This

Layer upon layer of incredibly colorful beauty is what surrounds me when I am out photographing the amazing rock formations of places such as Valley of Fire or Red Rocks. And though those names undeniably relate to the vibrant fire reds that seem to pulse with earth's life force, there is still phenomenal beauty to be seen when the images captured are stripped of their color. Much like what happens when we look at ourselves without the colorful and distracting trappings of material appearance or superficial living, we begin to see other layers that our loving Creator placed deep within us and asks us to use to His glory: layers of compassion, layers of mercy, layers of patience, layers of tolerance, layers of loyalty, layers of kindness, layers of sacrifice ... layers of love. My prayer tonight is that we become more and more unafraid to let each and every one of those layers shine with God's amazing light each and every day.

When we sit still long enough ... creation comes to you. During sunrise prayers, this precious Desert Cottontail Rabbit decided it was safe enough to come out and forage for breakfast. How often do we actually sit still to receive sign of God's glory? Not often enough. Our days are filled with demands and goals (most often self-chosen) that are far less nurturing to our souls than listening to the soft rustle of padded feet hopping across shaded desert ground. I learned something from this gentle creature this morning: Work when it's cool, actively look for nourishment, keep alert for what's going on around you, and just "be" who you are. What a blessed way to start the day. Thank you, Lord.