This last week we had another unexpected rain storm, and I saw God.

I was driving home from work in the rain and on the opposite side of the street I saw a stalled car. As I pulled up to the red light I noticed the occupants of the car were out on the sidewalk. A mom and her about 7-year old daughter were stranded, apparently awaiting help. I would have been frustrated, maybe upset at getting stuck like that. But not these two. They were clasping hands and running around in circles on the sidewalk, hopping into the puddles, faces upturned to the rain at times. I watched them for the duration of the red light. Enjoying the spectacle. Then I saw God.

No matter what is going on in our lives, what “rain” is falling, we can still look toward heaven and rejoice. Dance, play, jump in the puddles!  Want to join me?

Watching for God,
janet

I saw God!

In my efforts to be more “watchful” this year, I’m learning to pay attention to all the little blessings and things God is doing all around me all the time. Like at breakfast the other morning.

I was at a little cafe waiting for a friend to join me for breakfast. I was early and rather than read or text or whatever, I decided to watch.

I watched the door open slowly and an elderly couple arm in arm painstakingly make their way to a table. I was watching. The man graciously pulled out the seat for his bride. He took her hand and guided her gently into the chair. He thoughtfully and carefully pushed her chair up to the table. He found her napkin, placed it in her lap. He then slowly took his own seat and moved close to her side. I then realized she was paralyzed on one side. She couldn’t use that arm, or hand. She really couldn’t do much of anything for herself. As I watched them order their breakfast, and interact with one another, I saw God.

The bridegroom patiently placed the order for his bride. He helped her eat and gently wiped her mouth with the napkin. He touched her hand and pushed hair from her forehead. He spoke in soft, patient, gentle tones. He ordered more cream for her coffee and poured it in her cup. He smiled at her often, even when her left hand trembled and she spilled her juice. Such love, such grace, such patience, such kindness, such compassion.

Jesus is our bridegroom and we are His bride. Even in our brokenness, our woundedness, our inability, our weakness, He is always gentle, kind, compassionate and full of grace. I’m so grateful that He is. I want Him to know how thankful I am for His compassion, mercy and grace. And I want to show that same kindness and compassion with those around me. How about you?

Watching for God,
janet