“In this photo, the contrast between one fading azalea blossom and another in full bloom offers a powerful reminder of the fragility of life. It prompts me to reflect on our purpose here on earth. Each day, I ask myself, ‘What am I here for?’ The answer is clear: My purpose is to join God in spreading love and making this world a better place. Let’s commit to being actively involved in our Father’s mission during our brief time here. 🌺💕 #Purpose #Love #MakeADifference”
After the thunderstorms cleared, the sun emerged, causing the still visible branches of this tree to cast a sharp outline on the lush green lawn of Lenora Park in Snellville, GA. As leaves fill in the canopy, the shadow cast by the branches will be transformed into a nearly solid silhouette.
Statue of Jesus at Dawn Memorial Park, Decatur, GA, USA.
At the conclusion of my classmate’s interment, the grief I had held so tightly gurgled up from the depths of my soul like an irrepressible geyser. My once-placid countenance shattered. I couldn’t stay beneath the tent—I had to get out, to find space where I could release what I could no longer contain.
I took off across the cemetery, walking fast, my sobs breaking into cries: “Oh Jesus, oh Jesus!” Each step felt like an attempt to outrun the sorrow, but grief clung to me.
Then, through my tears, I looked up. There, standing before me, was this statue of Jesus. In that moment, I was reminded—just when I need Him, Jesus is near.
Just when I need Him, Jesus is near, Just when I falter, just when I fear; Ready to help me, ready to cheer, Just when I need Him most.
Just when I need Him most, Just when I need Him most, Jesus is near to comfort and cheer, Just when I need Him most.
“Hear my cry, O God; Attend to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I will cry to You,
When my heart is overwhelmed;
Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” (Psalm 61:1–2)
Have you ever seen something along the highway that was so amazing it made you stop? The sight of Shannon Falls tumbling 1099 feet down the rocky face of a mountain into a beautiful wayside park made me stop. This natural wonder is a must-visit for nature lovers who are traveling along the coast of British Columbia on Highway 99, also known as the Sea to Sky Highway.
During a recent walk, the rays of sunshine, sometimes called “God Light,” brightened my path in Lenora Park. Even in the daylight, we need God’s light to see which path to take, what decisions to make, and what to believe. The psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)