With COVID and all the other disturbing events we are witnessing this summer I’ve found myself looking for peaceful moments and little signs of encouragement.  I’ve found them frequently; thanks be to God!

In the past few weeks, I have had glimpses (above the rooftops and through the trees) of several brightly colored sunrises and others with a changing light display on the morning clouds.  Some mornings colors are of a soft medium hue while others have been a no-holds barred display of brilliant oranges, yellows, and deep rose tones. I’ve found watching the slow-motion changing of the colors and clouds while sipping coffee is the perfect, calming way to start the day.

As I watched one morning, I thought about all the sunrises of my life.  Truthfully, I’ve only watched a small percentage of them although I know there has been one every day that I’ve been alive.  The troubles and worries from the day before may still linger and uncertainties about tomorrow abound, but each sunrise brings a new day, a fresh start, and another day of life. Each day is a gift, let’s remember to treasure it and take one day at a time.

Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day. Matthew 6:34 RSV