Photography © by Randy Hain
Every now and then I slow down enough to experience God.
The picture attached to this post was recently taken by me on the last day of our family vacation, just before my morning run. The sight of the sun behind the clouds took my breath away as it spoke to me of God’s glory and might, but my frail humanity could only behold a glimpse of His awesome power. The image captured in the above photo has stayed with me as I wrestle with its meaning and why I was blessed to witness it.
I have often written of my ongoing struggle with finding peace and detaching from the never ending buzz of the modern world. When we arrived at the beach the week before this picture was taken, I struggled to put work and various other projects aside and enjoy quality time with my family. As each day passed, I found myself praying more and more. The time with the kids at the pool, the beach and mealtimes became a true joy as we laughed and kidded each other the way happy families should. My wife and I had some wonderful conversations while the kids were swimming and found time to be thankful for our lives together and discuss our dreams for the family’s future. The week was a much needed time to recharge my physical, emotional and spiritual batteries and I am grateful.
As I look back, I believe God shared this glimpse of His glory with me when I was ready to receive it. Just a week before, the powerful image would have been lost on me. But, on our last full day of vacation, I was at peace. I had gotten my priorities back in order. I fell in love with my family all over again and was reminded of how blessed I am to have the vocation of husband and father. I could have kept my eyes firmly fixed on the running path before me as I normally do, but this particular day I felt an urge to look up and catch this perfect moment when the fast moving clouds partially obscured the sun.
Where is God appearing in our lives today? Have we slowed down enough to experience Him? What obstacles are in the way? Is it our pursuit of a lifestyle we don’t need? Is it our pride? Is it other sinful behavior? Do we allow what appear to be pressing priorities obscure our vision and prevent us from the more important goal of attaining Heaven?
Let’s take this to prayer and ask our Lord for the courage to reject the worldly idols which come between us and Him. Pray for detachment from unnecessary things. Pray for peace. Pray for strength.
Maybe we should simply pray for the merest glimpse of His infinite glory to be revealed to us.
Editor’s Note: Would you like to learn more about “regular Catholic heroes” and the joyful witness they give for Christ and the Catholic faith? Randy Hain’s exciting and popular sixth book, Joyful Witness: How to Be an Extraordinary Catholic (Servant Books) is available through Amazon and all Catholic bookstores! All of his books are available on Amazon.com
