Behind our new home stand many large trees that border a small creek. As the sun goes down, fireflies rise from the grass and slowly soar higher and higher until the trees appear decorated for Christmas. Hundreds of glimmering lights sparkle against the deep dark of night.
God’s creative handiwork, right in our own backyard.
* * * * *
On the Fourth of July our family attended the local Independence Day parade. While waiting for the festivities to begin, a young boy seated next to us chatted with me every now and then.
One time he commented, “Wow! There’s not even one cloud in the sk___ …Wait a minute. There’s a little one over there.”
We both studied the wisp of vapor for a moment. “It’s disappearing already,” he added.
Together we witnessed the last visible curl evaporate away. My attention returned to people-watching.
But the boy suddenly cried out, “There it is again!”
Sure enough, the water droplets had regathered themselves.
It was then I noticed a phenomenon that I’d missed before. In the area of that little cloud was a faint veil of fog, barely visible. Millions, perhaps billions of water droplets were suspended there all along.
The boy and I only noticed them when they drew together in a dense gathering.
Watching the cloud reform, the boy exclaimed, “Cool!” Cool indeed.
God’s ingenious engineering of the elements, right above the street.
* * * * *
After dinner recently Steve said, “I’ll do the dishes.”
Now lots of husbands probably do the dishes now and then. But do they also do the cooking? My Steve does! He actually enjoys it, and almost always takes care of the cleanup, too. (Sorry, he’s not for sale.)
God’s love expressed to me through my loving husband, right there in our kitchen.
* * * * *
Our toddler granddaughter loves the swings at the park. “Weeee!” she squeals with each push. For her it’s a new, exciting delight.
Actually, Elena’s days are filled with new discoveries: the ping-sound of a metal post when struck with a stick, the mystery of bubbles that disappear with a touch, the slow, spiral dance of a dropped feather.
Her eyes sparkle; her smiles and laughter indicate intense pleasure.
God’s gift of joy on display right in our own family.
* * * * *
And paying attention to all of these manifestations makes me more aware of his presence.
And awareness of his presence changes my heart.
Stress gives way to peace, tedium gives way to joy, striving gives way to contentment, fear gives way to consolation.
And surely God must smile when we live aware and celebrate his gracious provision.
* * * * *
I praise you, Father, for reminding me of your active, loving presence throughout each day, everywhere I go — even at a parade. Thank you for ministering to my needs, assuaging my fears, comforting my hurts, and giving me joy. What a gracious God you are!
(Photo credits: www.billemory.com; http://www.spacious-passion.org; http://www.generationnext.com; www. projectnursery.com.)
From the Inside Out 
What a lovely post, Nancy – so filled with grace and joy. I am so happy for you and Steve, to be settling well into the newness of this home and lifestage. And that granddaughter??? SO adorable!
Thank you, Diana. We are indeed settling well. But I must admit that is NOT Elena in the picture. I need to have Eric email me an up-to-date one, or learn how to use the camera in my new iPhone! However, that baby reminded me of Elena, so that’s the one I chose.
Simple beauty…a wonderful awareness of His hand at work…love, love, love it (and you!).
Thank you, Ginny. God’s loving hand has been fashioning all sorts of blessings lately! Love to you, too, and your precious family.
A Blessed Life !
Oh, yes!!
I loved seeing the decorated firefly tree. I enjoyed seeing Steve’s soapy hands. But the absolute joy on Elena’s face is the best of all!! I’m so glad that you are able to be a part of her life and that she will be able to learn from you. Wonderful!!
…Except that’s not Elena! I need to get an updated one from Eric or take time to learn how to use the camera in my iPhone. Still too many other things on the to-do list! It is wonderful to be a part of Elena’s life, that’s for sure. Thank you for continuing to follow the blog! Love to you, dear friend.
sure sounds like you are settling into your new home and love being around family. Your words just ooze love. And I am especially enjoying the fireflies this year too. Like God sparkles every evening.
Oh, yes! We’re settling well, we’re loving being so close to family, and we’re enjoying the familiar sights from years ago, like fireflies. AND I love your creative, descriptive name for them: God sparkles! Absolutely perfect.
I can always count on you, Nancy, to remind me to live aware. I love when you said, “Stress gives way to peace, tedium gives way to joy, striving gives way to contentment, fear gives way to consolation.” This is so true, and is timely for me. Thank you!
You are so welcome, Rebeca. I am humbled and honored that God used this post to minister to you in a “timely” fashion! Blessings to you, friend.
Great post and reminder to look around us to see the wonders and blessings of His handiwork! To be aware that God is everywhere… Not just during devotions and dedicated time to Him…
Thank you, Cheri. To be aware of God’s constant presence is to know incomparable joy (Psalm 16:11). I’m still learning to live out the truth of that statement–too easily distracted!
I was amazed how the little boy recognized the clouds, he surely was a boy of awareness. Yes, being aware of all the gifts of being with family, friends and loved ones to show us what we miss. Love and hugs to you and Steve, and of course your family. It is good to hear you are enjoying your new retirement.
Thank you, Laura for the love and hugs! We are delighting in being close to family and spending much time together, but we miss our friends in Florida, too.
Amen to that 🙂
Thank you, Gill!