Stop and Smell the Roses
"Stop and smell the roses" is an idiom that we often hear reminding us to
slow down and relax. This has taken on a new meaning in recent weeks now
with our new normal of social distancing and self-isolation, providing us
with this very opportunity. Many of us have had to learn a new way of
self-productivity from home through teleworking. Hopefully, we have taken
advantage of this time over the last several weeks to learn to be more
content, patient and kind. I know that I have a greater appreciation for the
ability to go to work and to overlook minor obstacles such as the traffic
congestion that once seemed like a major nuisance. We have taken for granted
the ease of life's comforts such as being able to go grocery shopping and to
sit down for meal in a favorite restaurant. Mostly, we all have missed the
direct interaction with Christians in being able to be together for our
worship assemblies as we normally would and even to exchange a handshake or
a hug.
While this time of uncertainty continues, may we stop and reflect upon our
own lives to see how we are using each day. May we use our time more wisely
in prayer to God and studying the word of God. May we develop more empathy
toward others; Learning to place a greater value on the impact to our
society of health care workers and first responders, teachers and
educational professionals, public servants and essential support workers
like truck drivers, grocers and custodians.
May we use our time wisely to enjoy more time for walks, bike rides and
dinners with our immediate family. May we learn more creativity, try new
skills and to implement organizational abilities. May we aspire to be better
stewards with the things that we have been blessed learning to live with
less, organizing essential shopping trips and planning for meals at home.
Lastly, may we learn to share in the enjoyment of the simple things of life;
like the ability to still have fresh water to drink, clean air to breath and
food available for our survival. May we notice the birds and other creatures
of God going about their daily routines of nature; For the beautiful colors
of nature around us at this time, the dogwoods, cherry blossoms and even the
emerging flowers of spring. This picture of a rose is from our family's
backyard and the first bloom of spring. The rose bush is a descendant of my
father's landscape garden that he preserved from his mother's home site. May
we remember during all times in our lives to always be a blessing to our
God, family and community through the beauty of our thoughts, words and
actions!
The following hymn lyrics have been one of my favorites recently written
with Isaiah 40 in mind. May it be a blessing for you today. The beautiful
song and music arrangement is entitled Behold Thy God.
Who has held the oceans in his hands?
Who has numbered every grain of sand?
Kings and nations tremble at his voice
All creation rises to rejoice
Who has given counsel to the Lord?
Who can question any of his words?
Who can teach, the one who knows all things?
Who can fathom all his wondrous deeds?
Who has felt the nails upon his hands?
Bearing all the guilt of sinful man
God eternal, humbled to the grave
Jesus, Savior, risen now to reign
Chorus: Behold our God, seated on his throne
Come, let us adore him
Behold our king, nothing can compare
Come, let us adore him
