Guest Post
by Caryl Moll
As the world folded in on us in mid-March, I wondered how I would cope. It was all so sudden: a world pandemic resulting in a national lockdown. Effectively, we had all been ordered into isolation as this novel virus took hold of our planet.
In a flash, we were socially transformed: “No hugging! No physical contact! Quarantine! Masks! Sanitizing! No Church! …” As expected, fear, uncertainty and confusion prevailed. Everyone was scared as hopelessness descended. It was all overwhelming.
How could I hold onto my Lord in this environment? Why was this happening? What was expected of me personally? How was I to be a disciple of Christ with this happening?
It may sound crazy, but it was during those first few days of lockdown that I started exploring the ROOFTOP of our home. I suddenly discovered the “sunrise” … And God’s creation – things that had always been there but somehow went unnoticed. It was an incredibly beautiful experience.
Nowadays, I rise when it’s still dark. The warmth of my bed no longer calls. I prepare my flask, grab my bible, climb the ladder and head for the “sky”. The rooftop has become one of my many sanctuaries at home (and yes, it is safe!) I have, inadvertently, discovered a new world – God’s world – and a new lens through which to observe it.
I cannot begin to tell you how beautiful the sunrises are. Each one has been magically different. I find myself holding my breath as I wait for the dawn – listening to all the sounds and taking in the world’s ambience as we change seasons. I watch as birds fly across and herald in the new day. Small, intimate flocks soar upwards towards the early rays. They warm their wings and practically celebrate their ability to fly. (Shouldn’t we all?) The colours of the dawn are glorious – a heavenly palette – as God brushes over the skies. Everything is new and ready. The chill of the breeze is tangible too and the foliage almost dances as those first rays hit the earth.
I’m not advocating for everyone to climb on their roof, but I’m rather encouraging readers to search for their own personal, private space with God. For me, these are magical moments – celebrating our Great Creator! I am in awe. Every day, as that golden sun peeps over the horizon, I realise more and more how much God is in control – TOTALLY in control! I also begin to understand how much he loves me and provides for me. Each morning I am reminded:
“Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning. Great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22,23)
God uses all situations to His glory. In my case, I have discovered that I can, indeed, share these sunrises. Yes, I manage to “live-stream” them to my friends on Facebook. God has made a way. I know that the videos have uplifted a few folk in their isolation and I am so thankful for this. We can all find unique ways to touch others
I would like to take this moment to ask you to join me by doing the following things:
Together, let’s resolve to set our daily FOUNDATION firmly in Christ. Let’s adopt a mantle of GRATITUDE as we begin each day. Let’s OBSERVE God’s creation and LEARN from it. Let’s reach for the GOOD, be CREATIVE and do something KIND for someone else. But, most of all, let’s understand fully that…
GOD LOVES US ALL DEEPLY!”
With love, in Christ
Caryl
Thank you so much. We all need encouragement in these trying days.
Thankyou for sharing Caryl. How precious the Lord is to reveal Himself to you in such an awesome way. I love the way the Lord is so personal in how He touches our hearts in a way we are most able to receive His gifts.