I love seeing egrets and herons. The way they are frozen in place, looking so tall and majestic,  gives an air of peace about them.

When I see one of these great birds, no matter how rushed or crazy my day, I have to pause and gaze at them. I’ve been known to suddenly crane my neck when going past a body of water. They can stop me right in my tracks. There’s just something  about their calm appearance that stirs me from within.

On a recent trip to Maryland, we went out on a lake for some family fun. Our girls and their cousin went out on a paddle boat, while my husband and I took a canoe.

It wasn’t too long before I spied this great egret in the distance. My husband maneuvered the boat as close and as quietly as he could, while I snapped numerous pictures, hoping to capture a good one.

Then I spied the turtles. Whoa. There were at least six, all frozen in place with their heads held up toward the sun. And immediately I thought:

“Be still, and know that I am God”… (Psalm 46:10 ESV)

I must say I often have trouble with that. Just being still. Simply worshiping God for who he is.  Being quiet long enough to meditate on his Word and hear what he has for me. Trusting in him for today and for my future.

In the race that is life, when I’m so often busy and distracted, it’s great to catch a glimpse of one of these birds.  It gives me a sense of peace, even if just for that moment.  A reminder that sometimes I just need to quiet my soul.

“For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.”  (Psalm 62:5-6  ESV)

Won’t you take a moment to pause and be still today? Look to the one who holds all of our hope.

~Carolyn

“Life isn’t easy. Together we can make it better.”