Creativity

So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27

Earlier this week, a woodpecker woke me way too early. He was pecking on the roof of my front porch, right outside my bedroom window. A little perturbed, I lifted the corner of the blind to peek out and watched him peck away. He was beautiful: red head, black body with delicate white scallops. If he wasn't so noisy, I would love to see him every day.

This morning I awoke uncharacteristically early. I ambled downstairs to the coffee pot, thankfully brewed, filled my cup and went to the back porch to start my day. Perched on the back of a chair sat a regal cardinal. He perched perfectly still. 

Across the yard, a bluebird swooped down to alight on a maple tree branch. He twitched there, perhaps a drop of rainwater dripped onto his back feathers? He settled for a moment, then swooped off again. Breath-taking.

Enjoying these birds, God spoke softly to me. "See these birds?" I do, Lord. 

"They are nothing, compared to the way I made you." 

(It's not like he spoke audibly, but the thoughts just popped into my head. I felt them as much as I thought them. I know God was pressing in close to teach me something.)

I pondered the thought.

God created man and woman in his own image! He saved the best for last - US!

Dear friends, we are God's most special creation. Do you appreciate your special-ness today?

Dear God,

I am in awe of your creativity. Thank you for the birds, the trees, the flowers, and even the brussel sprouts that you created, just for our enjoyment. Thank you for giving us minds to think wild thoughts and bodies to do tremendous works to glorify you. Thank you for the gift of today!

Help me remember how special the gift of life is. Help me remember your great love for me -- and forgive me when I take myself for granted. Forgive me for thinking I'm normal, ordinary, or anything but unique. Thank you for the gift of my health. And the gift that is today.

You are amazing, God.

In Jesus' Name I pray,

Amen