November 16, 2015 – Luke 19:37-38

When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen. “Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!” Luke 19:37-38When was the last time you praised our Lord God, the King, for the blessings and miracles in your life?  No, it doesn’t have to be a big one.  One day, while scurrying around in the kitchen making a meal for my husband, I glanced out the window and saw a butterfly perched on the screen.  It wings spread out, and came back together.  The colors on its wings and the peace and repose reminded me to stop and give thanks to God for His goodness.Our God often uses his creation to bring hope and messages to us.  His presence is made known and we remember His Steadfast, Faithful Love.Last night, as I closed the curtain against the darkness, I saw a sliver of the moon.  The wonder of its existence hanging in the sky gives me the joy of the presence of God.  It is a reminder of the essence of God – that no matter how dark our lives are, there is a ray of hope.This morning the horizon was painted a beautiful soft pink. When we have faith in God, we can see the ugliness of the world through rose-colored screen of God’s peace.  We can take heart in the darkest hours, for our Lord Jesus has overcome the world.  In Him, and only in Him, there is peace and joy.  He is standing and waiting for us with open arms, just as we are.I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world. John 16:33