The Privileged Life: A Fall Feast for the Eyes and Soul

^“Nevertheless He did not leave Himself without witness, in that He did good, gave us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.” (Acts 14:17)

Our mountains are exploding.

Those of us who live in the Appalachians (by the way, here in the South, that’s APP-uh-LATCH-uns) have been treated to spectacular leaf-peeping this year. The autumn fireworks of brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows against evergreens have blessed us with a feast for our eyes and balm for our souls.

When God takes His cosmic paintbrush and splashes His version of Technicolor all over the landscape, His handiwork is breathtaking for all those who open their eyes to recognize His artistry.

Many, however, will miss this extravaganza—not because of blindness, but because they fail to see His glory in this masterpiece called Earth.

What are you missing? Did you get invited to an “eye feast” and decline the invitation? Is your soul starving…hungry to see beauty?

I’m just as guilty of being too focused on a task at hand, working too long on the computer, or driving past an extraordinary example of God’s miracles in nature. Missed some of them—like the rainbow that appears but vanishes before you can snap the photo (for that story, see https://lightbournecreative.com/2020/12/07/the-privileged-life-the-best-photo-i-never-got/).

This week, I encourage you to look around you. Whether you live in mountains, in a concrete-and-steel city, on a tropical island, in a barren desert, or along rolling plains, God has something beautiful to show you from His amazing creation.

Take a moment to look at the kaleidoscope of colors in fallen leaves…hot-house flowers in a supermarket…glittering crystals in a desert boulder…sunsets and sunrises…or a collection of pastel seashells. He has provided your eyes and soul with a glimpse of His power and kindness…along with a daily dose of His love.

May you be blessed richly with the colorful message of His grace this season—and may Jesus Himself walk with you, to open Your eyes to His majesty.

Glorious God, awesome in power and sovereignty over creation, how we praise You for the daily blessings of beauty You give to us. Open our eyes to see Your beauty as we fall on our knees in worship. May we never tire of the gifts You give us in every season. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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Along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina, the views this year are magnificent. Maples, sumac, birches, and hemlocks all blend their voices together in a fabulous chorus of color.