by Kala Loptien
What Remains
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There are times I find it difficult to write. Whether I’m jotting down a journal entry, penning a petition in my prayer book, or seeking inspiration from the Author of Life to type the words of this devotion. Sometimes brain fog seems like a real struggle. I think we face this kind of fog on various occasions and in many forms. You might be bogged down or overwhelmed by many of life’s hardships. Perhaps you even feel a bit stuck. In the world of creating, they call it a block–an inability to proceed.
When I look at this photo, I remember the quiet that accompanied the fog this winter morning on my in-laws’ patio. What stands out to me is this very strong, sharp tree. Unhindered, unchanged and unmoved by the rest of the world around it, this tree remains in focus. In thinking about our lives here on this earth, I think about all the messiness that comes with it. Surrounding our hearts and minds is often a thick fog of adversity, whether our own or those we love. At times, it feels difficult to see beyond what’s right in front of us. Though this might leave us feeling a bit somber, we need not fear or stay stuck for long.
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”
Hebrews 12:2 New International Version
As Hebrews 12:2 so eloquently encourages, we must FIX our eyes on Jesus. There’s no need to look elsewhere. It’s very clear that we will only find real respite and renewal in the arms of our Savior. He alone is what remains amidst a world of noise, heaviness and brokenness.
When this ominously-beautiful fog lifted later that morning, the canvas revealed a panoramic view of the Rockies. Lord, thank you for the beauty of your creation, that inspires our thinking and encourages us to fix our eyes on you. Amen.
Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado
