“Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth.” Colossians 3:2 (ESV)

Still

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.”

I’ve just returned from a much needed respite from the world. After several long, challenging months my favorite traveling partner and I packed up our necessities and headed out hoping to leave all the extra baggage behind. The moment we walked into our little cottage, I felt we’d been guided there. And as it turned out, bringing a little, was just enough.

“He makes me lie down in green pastures.”

Surrounded by lush beauty, I knew it was going to be a place of refuge, one where we’d be nourished, replenished, and find rest. Exactly what we were desperately in need of, and now a way had been made for them to be provided.

“He leads me beside still waters.”

There was a path from the house going down to the lake. Those were sacred steps as I sensed God’s Spirit near the water. The lake taught me much as I sat by its side. Ripples formed when the smallest of leaves hit the surface reminding me how I can let little things cause disruption in my life. The ups and downs of the waves after a boat passed by mimicked the highs and lows in life but sitting on the floating dock also showed me that riding those waves could be navigated if you hold on. But it was the glassy surface of the perfectly motionless lake that had the biggest impact. A motionless, mirrored surface allowed what was above to be reflected on it. I noticed that when the water is churning you can’t see anything from above at all, but when its totally still, a display of color and shape is revealed.

“He restores my soul.”

When in choppy waters, we grab for anything that we think will hold us up, it’s the same when we are in turmoil; we are intent on helping ourselves stay afloat. Our days feel vague, murky, and exhausting. Only when we quiet our hearts and minds, can we begin to reflect on the things above. The One who actually saves us. The One who calms the waters. That’s what the last few days have done for me, afforded me solitude, peace, and restoration. Being still inspired me to gaze Heavenward and it gave me a renewed outlook, one in which the beauty of God’s goodness and grace came clearly into view.

Psalm 23:1-3a (ESV)