I’m no artist. When I discovered adult coloring books there was a beginning curiosity that I might could do ok with this project. Pictures were waiting for my color palette choice. There are times when I feel completely satisfied with the finished design. Other times that awkward unsettled tilt of my head says ‘nope, that didn’t work!’
How much of our world looks at the picture of the day and wonders who will bring color to it? Who will create a design that makes sense or gives satisfaction? Who will breathe hope into the page of life we are holding our breath in?
The fires, virus news fatigue,
hurricanes, heatwaves,
masks, mothers losing sons and daughters
five year old students as well as freshman sit in online classes,
the furloughs and fitful nights of anxious sleep,
stay at home orders and six feet spacing,
watching church on a screen and the calendar claim weeks of new normal,
the picture from any angle isn’t what we understand or can predict.
The truth of this curious season of life can find some comfort from the writer of Psalm 119.
V 81 I am worn out waiting for your rescue…
V 123 My eyes strain to see your rescue…
V 143 As pressure and stress bear down on me…
But just like focusing on one part of the coloring page, we can miss the greater design. God’s words are wonderful and often mysterious. They have more definition and detail than we first see. Read the verses again:
V 81 I am worn out waiting for your rescue, but I have put my hope in your word.
V 123 My eyes strain to see your rescue, to see the truth of your promise fulfilled.
V 143 As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands.
Sweet Friend, the reality of our days can feel stained with awkward colors or clean with fresh lines. When uncertainty is real or pain relentless, when doubt stands on our shoulder or hope swells in anticipation, the Word of the Lord is certain and ready with every color needed for the scene.
No matter the design of the day, the minute, the season, we can trust that God’s Word is unchangeable. His promises sure. And His commands eternal.
The design – every page in our life – is in his plan. Let’s remember and today help dab, splash or full on paint some of His colors of love and sweetness into someone else’s picture.