Whatever is Lovely
On February 10, 2022 by Elle R.
I take daily walks in my local cemetery. It may seem a little creepy if you’re afraid of that sort of thing, but I find it very peaceful as I have a large family and the cemetery is typically fairly quiet. There are other walkers beside myself that favor the same route, even in winter.
There are loads of trees inside the cemetery proper, and woods surrounding it. Although I love summer for all its glory, winter has its own flora and fauna if you keep your eyes open.
I have a confession. Lately, I have let myself get really distracted by world events. In short order, I found myself grumpy and dissatisfied with the world around me. Incessantly reading the news simply reinforces what I already know soul deep. I have allowed my focus to wander away from Jesus.
The apostle Paul reminds us to keep our minds on “the good stuff.”
“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8.
Have you ever lost focus on what is truly important? I feel foolish admitting how much time I have spent paying attention to the news instead of the bible. One is informational, the other is transformational.
Paul penned the letter to the church at Philippi while he was in prison for his faith, but he still managed to focus on what is most important and encouraged others not to get distracted by the noise.
I was walking in the cemetery yesterday and nearly walked right past this deer ( pictured above) because my mind was focused on things that were of no eternal value. I would have missed seeing him entirely had I not heard two of his companions dart away, their fluffy white tails bouncing like cotton balls in front of me, forcing me out of my gloomy reverie.
I think God is kind of like that deer. Right in front of me, but I don’t see past the trees – not because I can’t see past them, but because I don’t focus on Him as I am called to do.
Jesus is lovely to me and the news is not. I will take a long breather from the news.
So that the next time I walk, I will see the loveliness in front of me.
I like this one because it reminded me of all the times God “spoke” to me while walking with Washie. I learned a lot while on a trail with just God and my dog. And as I write this, a flock of robins and mourning doves are scattered all over my backyard… What a beautiful sight to see God providing for the birds of the air even in the middle of winter. How much more valuable am I to Him who holds all things in His hands? Our Father is so good – praise His holy name!!
Your comment is a balm to my soul my friend. Lately, I had been thinking about the song, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands,” and here you are – writing about Him who holds all things in His hands. I love how God speaks to me through you!!! Thank you for reading the blog. I’m glad it resonated. =)