Resurface. Reupholster. Repaint. Refinish. Make something old new again!
Natalie DiScala
I’ve thought a lot about recycling. My building does a good job, but there are somethings that can’t be recycled–black food containers, plastic straws, etc.
I am thankful that God can take all our ugly sins and the trash of our lives and assure us that we are a forgiven people. That is if we give the garbage to God totally. What is returned to us is a new clean heart. This is what I have learned over the years and finally came to understand.
All is fresh and clean after the rains today. Thoughts, soul, spirit
Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations; I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10
I recognize that I have a hard time being still. I come closest to that when I am in the middle of a good book. But I also love to be in the midst of a book club, church service, family gathering, or coffee with friends.
Now, at home alone because of the COVID-19 pandemic, I’m learning to be still.
The phrase, ” in the midst of social distancing” was used on TV recently. I realize that “midst” here means involved in the process of social distancing. But doesn’t social distancing mean giving up closeness with others? Being social usually finds us physically near others or in the “midst” of a group.
But we have learned to stay at least six feet apart, wear a mask properly, and maintain contact by phone, Zoom, letters, and Facetime. Perhaps we have become more social through this pandemic. My grandchildren have reached out with letters—rare happenings that I cherish.
The other benefit I have given myself is permission to be still. I don’t rush through my morning devotions because I have a volunteer spot to fill or an article to write. There is more time for sitting, reflecting on my Bible reading and listening for God’s voice.
If I am still and paying attention, God occasionally sends signs that seem meant for me personally. One day I looked up from the computer and out my window in time to see a rainbow appearing over the trees nine stories below. By the time I grabbed my phone to take a picture the colors were already fading, but I murmured,” Thank you, God!” No one whom I asked later had seen the sudden rainbow.
I hate the disease and what it has done to our citizens and our country. But as a result of it, many have softened their hearts and altered their attitudes. There has been a reconnection among people globally. I pray that when the pandemic ends, the whole world will be more loving and more often “still” to hear God’s voice and see His wonders.
There are times during this pandemic,
When humor is just what I need,
It's said that people look like their dogs,
I tried it out and Lola agreed.
She is a sweetheart and just turned twelve,
A little slower, but that suits me fine.
Her antics can cheer me and makes me laugh,
We're in this together and doing just fine.
(Except she won't leave her mask in place.)
