Changing Landscapes

Perhaps if we thought of time as running forward rather than running out, we could view the world differently. What we think as usual, may be captivating because we look with a different perspective.

For example, this morning, one could have viewed my world as dreary. Rain spilling from a murky sky with no where to go --the earth unaccepting, frozen, barren. But the view out my backyard window seemed almost comforting.

Pumpkins flattened, plants coated in seasonable colors, a diminished wooden palette, and water rushing from a nearby culvert. Dreary? I had left the pumpkins and plants for the deer and rabbits. The palette had served its purpose. Muted colors blended and ever moving--running forward.

I watched from my window as a pot roast burbled in the slow-cooker and witnessed the changes. In a few short minutes, rain turned to snow. Big white blobs. I wondered why any of us watch television or play games on our computers. Why not just look outside? God has provided an intriguing, changing landscape.

Considering our life's landscape, we may feel like nothing is happening, or all the wrong things are happening. ...And, time is running out. I didn't get that job I always wanted, or was it a vacation, or a soul mate, or....

We are on a timeline; no one lives forever; but, we are running forward, to a Kingdom--a Kingdom that is in the distance but also a Kingdom that is already present in each of us if we would but accept it. Knowing this, we can seek out the joy wherever we are, whatever the weather is like, whoever we are with--whatever the landscape.

If you don't think much happened in your life, reflect on it for a few minutes and realize how the plot has thickened. Some changes come quickly; some wished for don't come at all. Some changes are dramatic and not wanted. Some are subtle and we wonder about the mystery. This life (landscape) of yours will continue to be an adventure all your own. See it with different eyes running forward. Let God take your hand. Everything is easier when you have your best friend along for the journey.