Weekly Inspiration (11/19/16)

Riverfront Park   Kittanning, PA   November 4, 2016   12:34 P.M.

I chose this shot because of its contrasts:  highlight and shadow, bright red and normal yellow, leaves intact and leaves fallen, leaves turned color and leaves still to change.

I've been a slow learner in life, yet I'm sure about this: life is full of contrasts.  Experiences which are high, bright and colorful we savor thoroughly.  Might we need help to realize the benefit of experiences we label as low, dull or ordinary?  One side makes the other valuable.  Without "ordinary" we have little context for "stunning."  Without "dark" we have little appreciation for "radiant."  Without "low" we have little gratitude for "success."

What do you do in circumstances that easily accentuate the "negative"? Divert your attention from the barren-branch difficulties, even for a few minutes. Yes, it's a discipline.  Now talk to God. Where to begin?  I suggest reading aloud Habakkuk 3:17-19; Lamentations 3:21-25 and Philippians 4:6-8. God hears you when you vocalize His Word and it is good for you to hear yourself speak truth.

Keep Singing (Isa. 42:10)



Roaring Run Trail, Apollo, PA  12.27.12



It was cold and windy during my walk.  This bird didn't care.  It was snowy all around him.  This bird didn't care.  In spite of the cold, wind and snow, he kept singing.  That is how I got this shot.  Had I not heard his song, I'd have missed the picture.  

Sometimes we don't see clearly, so we misinterpret things if we're not careful.  Something is happening, but we can't quite define it.  During such times, keep singing.  Sing the song and you'll eventually get the picture.  Don't let your wintry surroundings silence your song.

"Sing to the LORD a new song, sing His praise from the end of the earth!" (Isa. 42:10)

Felix Baumgartner's Jump

Some things are too good to pass up and not share.  Even if you're not a National Geographic fan, you'll find this interesting.  For preachers, this story is loaded with illustrations.  http://tinyurl.com/8o4a6b6