Perspective

The golden beams of sunlight shone through the azure sky striking the young leaves of the oak behind our house illuminating the tender pea-green foliage.  The blossoms of a crab apple danced in the breeze above us while their pungent fragrance wafted on the wind.  The birds in their songs were heralding the arrival of spring.  As we sat there drinking in the atmosphere it almost seemed ethereal.  I suddenly realized why the world seemed so perfect.  The recent spring showers had scoured the coating of grime from all the leaves and washed the dust and smoke from the air.  Though the temperature was still a little cool the sun was warm and inviting.

Later as I meditated on the scene I was reminded that life can often be reminiscent of what is described above.  Sometimes we go through long winter-like months where the atmosphere of life is clouded with the dust and smoke of problems and the color of life fades when viewed through the challenges glaring in our face. It’s amazing how difficult decisions or conflict can cast long dark shadows over all of life.  But then how wonderful it is when the spring-like day dawns and the conflict is past; the problem solved. Life seems new; the outlook is bright!

Life is actually a matter of focus or perspective! While it is true we cannot see past the dust, smoke, and grime with our physical eyes yet with spiritual vision God has made it possible for us to look above, beyond, and behind the hazy atmosphere that engulfs us emotionally and spiritually.  Read the words of Isaiah the prophet which so adequately describe this conflict of perspective:

"Listen to Me, you who know righteousness, You people in whose heart is My law: Do not fear the reproach of men, Nor be afraid of their insults. For the moth will eat them up like a garment, and the worm will eat them like wool; but My righteousness will be forever, and My salvation from generation to generation.  I, even I, am He who comforts you. Who are you that you should be afraid of a man who will die, and of the son of a man who will be made like grass?  And you forget the LORD your Maker, Who stretched out the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth…”   (Isaiah 51:7, 8, 12, 13a)

That is the right perspective! The beams of God’s light and power illumine the darkest of days!

“I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world” Matthew 28:20b