Reflection and Sunsets

Tonight there was an amazing sunset. This isn't a picture of it, but it's kind of similar. When I look at a sunset I am so blown away by the creativity of our God. He is beautiful and loving to allow us to have that glimpse into what was once a perfect creation. What was so astounding when I looked at the sunset tonight was how bright the sun was, even through the clouds. It made me think of John 8:12, which says,

"I am the Light of the World, he who follows me will not walk in darkness, but have the light of life."

Just as the sun was shining so bright, even blinding, through the clouds, so our God shines so brightly even through "the clouds" of life. Recently there was a situation in my life that seemed to completely stiffle the light; I could not see how there could possibly be a break in the clouds to let light shine through. Then God, in His infinite wisdom and understanding and love, came beaming through in ways I never expected. His grace is unbelievable and I am learning more and more how much I need that, especially in this situation. The more I realize I need grace, the more freely I will give it to others, and that I what I am trudging through right now. Just when I think that grace isn't deserved in this situation or that I just don't want to give it, I think of how I have nothing in and of myself that makes me deserving of the grace that God has given me. He owes me NOTHING, but has given EVERYTHING to let his light break through into my life and fill me with grace and love and mercy that I certainly do not deserve. How could I possibly even consider witholding that grace from another? It's painful to see God pry my hands away from this and open me up to being gracious, but the more I open my eyes, the more brightly I see His hand in this situation. God is GOOD ... God is THE LIGHT ... I am thankful.