This morning, Norma Jean and I are waking up to a calm, crisp morning in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Daylight is just dawning. And the darkness dissipating. The fire is crackling in the fireplace. And we’re enjoying a hot cup of coffee!
At times like this, you wonder: “Ahh, does it get any better than this?!”
We’re relaxing after a jam-packed, intensive weekend meeting with the church in Winston-Salem. It was a most enjoyable meeting. The gracious hospitality of our hosts, Perry and Janet Hall. A kind and welcoming reception by the brethren to the lessons we presented. And the joy of worshiping with good people. God’s people. It was wonderful. But speaking 8 times in 3 days is a bit tiring, so it’s time for a bit of R & R in the mountains.
Here are a few quick, random thoughts before we head out for a good breakfast and exploring the mountains.
(1) We are blessed. God is good! All the time! He blesses us in so many ways. Spiritually. Physically. Materially. In our churches. In our families. With good friends. And with opportunities like we are enjoying this week.
(2) A time of rest and relaxation is a good thing! Sometimes when you are involved in full-time ministry, it’s challenging to slow down. Take a break. And enjoy a little vacation. But I’m reminded that even in Jesus’ busy ministry He took time to relax. To get away from the crowds. To take a break from teaching. And where did he go off to? To the mountains.
(3) Nature shouts there is a God! We enjoy the Fall of the year. The pleasant weather. The beautiful myriad of colors of the changing leaves. The mountain air. Seeing a deer lope through the woods. A cool morning turning into a warm day. It all reminds us of the Creator. Of God’s handiwork. His loving kindness toward us. His power. His presence. His goodness.
(4) But I’m also reminded of something better. The beauty of this world is just a foretaste of heaven. Of what God has prepared for us. Of our future. Our destiny. Our hope. God has given us good things to enjoy, but He has in store better stuff for eternity.
“Does it get any better than this?” Actually, it does.
–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman
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