"The heavens are telling the glory of God…." Psalm 19:1
These days demand that we look up. Look up into the blue sky
that is filled with some amazing cloud formations. I have no idea how and why
the clouds seem so particularly pronounced and beautiful in these April days.
Last night I watched as the clouds settled on the horizon at sunset. From the
window vantage point I had on a treadmill in the gym where I work out, I could see the sky
like an artist’s easel being painted before my very eyes. On the brilliant blue
background, lavenders and golds were brushed across the bottom of the canvas
near the horizon. Above, dark,nearly navy, blue clouds marbled the middle of
the picture frame, constantly moving to form new shapes and colors like a giant
lava lamp in full motion. Higher above were what seemed to be the leftover
clouds of a sunny day, cotton balls of fluffy white painted with the simplicity
of a child’s hand. It was such an exquisite sight I am thankful I didn’t fall
off the moving machine that was raising my heart rate and, hopefully, toning my
muscles.
This morning I had another reason to look up. Driving to
accomplish my regular Friday errands, I saw the graceful motion above me of
sight I hadn’t been blessed by for several months. Flying just above the
treetops a great blue heron was winging its way to a spring time lake. On its
way it seemed to be spreading glory as it glided on the first threads of the
morning. It is official…..spring is truly on its way!
hours later I looked up from the seat of my car, my errands now complete, to be
given the gift of an eagle flying directly across my path. I could see its
white head shining against the noontime sky. It soared with the majesty and the
power of knowing it is our national emblem. Frankly it almost seemed too many
blessings for just one morning but I’ll take all I’m offered and give my
thanks.
I was reminded of a scripture account in which Jesus asks:
”Why are you all standing around looking toward heaven?” Today my answer would
be because there are so many signs and wonders that grace the sky that connect
heaven and earth. Signs that remind me of the amazing gifts of Creator and
Creation. Signs that bring hope and glimpses of new life, of winter’s past and
summer’s future.
sake…..or at least until there is another glorious appearance that demands my attention.