Certainty

In every spot of the world, there are hidden treasures ready for someone, anyone to find, see, and experience.  In the midst of chaos, one discovers peace.  In the midst of pain and anguish, one finds hope.  In the midst of incredible filth, beauty emerges.  I find the process completely incongruent.  At this stage, I am not sure why I am surprised.  Evil and Awe are not related to each other.
 
The past two mornings, just as the sun peaks over the horizon, the sky fills with incredible purples and oranges.  The scene fills me with a renewed sense of peace and beauty.  Within minutes, the sun slips into the dull gray clouds, colors fade into the day’s brightness, and the world returns to normal.  This morning I set my alarm early, so I could be part of the process.  I know there are others that are sharing the scene, even though the streets are almost empty.  There is a certainty in the process that tells me God is here.
 
As I look at the blues, silver, and green reflections shimmering on the quiet bay waters, I find myself strengthen by the images of yesterday.  I see the hope bubbling in the eyes of the young children living near the beach in South India.  I see faces and gather a renewed sense of purpose with the extraordinary gifts of friendship.  I rediscover my sense of wonder as I experience what it is to be a student with a new insight and awareness.
 
I do not believe these are random, accidental acts.  When God says, “I'll lead you to buried treasures, secret caches of valuables—confirmations that it is, in fact, I, God, the God of Israel, who calls you by your name.”  (Isaiah 45.3)  I know the truth of the promise.  There is no question about yesterday, only wonder about what is hiding in today.  It is here, if I am willing to see.  It is here, if I am willing to listen.  It is here, if I am willing to let the Spirit guide me.