Lately, photos have come more easily than words.
I’ve caught myself eyeing every turn, every sky, looking to capture something magnificent.
…And then still end up surprised when magnificence is everywhere I look.
Those stunning sights have always been around me, but it took this summer to seriously look up from my life and see them. And I took it on as a challenge – an adventure.
And yes, perhaps I’ve become a little obsessed with catching the sun just so, the shadows ever lengthening…
The city in a new and shocking angle…
But the thrill that comes from capturing an image that says so much without having to utter a single word is inescapably addictive.
And watching the painting of a constantly morphing but ever more beautiful portrait is deeply moving.
This year has been a journey for me.
A journey not of my choosing, but one in which I am confident that God is absolutely in control of the start, the stop, and the long in-between.
There have been small glimpses of promise throughout the trip – that I am still in His hands, and clearly in His care.
And the sights that He’s led me to notice – the ones I’ve never paid attention to before – have been a thundering part of that reassurance.
And though on some days it feels as if I can just barely see the sun,
It’s always right there – just beyond the clouds and waiting to burst forth in a glorious day.
And so I find myself, constantly chasing that mesmerizing sun,
Because here is always peace there,
And I take great comfort in that.
And the glory of capturing something beyond myself reminds me of how much God has in His care, and how little my problems really are.
And that is good enough for me.
And thanks to my husband and a fleet of tiny nails, I now have that reminder even when I’m at home.
Good thing we have plenty of walls in our house. Because I’m not quitting.
Your photos are stunning, and remind me of the song- The Majesty and Glory of Your Name.
Thank you! That’s a great song to remind one of.
Ummm….WOW! That’s all I can say. Your words, and your pictures….what a comfort! I also, walked a dark valley this summer….breast cancer. Although it is removed, the scare is still there that it can return. However, He has promised me in Psalms 46:1….He is my help in troubled times…..and like you, I am trusting, holding and believing….as I am inscribed in the palm of His hand, that nothing will overcome me….praying for you!
Thank you! That IS a tough road to travel, and I totally understand the fear of not knowing. I will be praying for you also!
Best blog you have written yet. Thank you, Rachel.
Thank you so much! This was especially encouraging since I was scared to post it.
Reminding us of the beauty surrounding us is an awesome gift. Thank you.
Beautifully written post, and very moving. It reminded me of the Chris Tomlin song “Indescribable:”
“…who imagined the sun and gives source to its light
yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night
none can fathom
Indescribable
Uncontainable
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name
You are amazing, God”
Thanks! I love that song!
Love the photo wall- so beautiful, calming, peaceful…. i want one. LOL. if only it werent so frustrating to hang things on a cement block wall!!!
Those are beautiful! What do you take them with – camera or phone and what kind?
Almost all of them are with my iPhone. I have a Canon T4i, but typically use my phone because I understand it better!
Lovely! Lovely images, lovely post! You’re an inspiration as you find ways of learning and growing through the hard times.
Kia kaha! (stand strong)
Thank you so much!!
I always love your pictures and I adore your new gallery wall!
Thanks! I’m pretty excited about it myself. All the rest of the walls in my house are trembling in fear – they know how big my “Sunsets” folder is on my computer.
You are strong! Thanks for sharing and reminding and encouraging.
Those truly are stunning pictures. What a wonderful reminder of God’s unchanging faithfulness. I love those unexpected moments that remind me of that!
AWESOME!
Beautiful.
Just gorgeous……..
Wow. Just wow. You have some amazing photos there. Well done!