The Artistry In His Arms

We celebrated the fourth of July the same way many families do.  With fireworks.  We pulled out our red, white and blue clothes.  I covered the kids with bug spray, grabbed a sheet and loaded everyone in the car.  10 minutes later we were unloading and the boys were running around in the grass.  

Josiah was so excited when the fireworks started.  Chatting away about what color, size and shape each one was.  

Matthew wasn’t convinced though, and after a minute or two he was whining that he didn’t want fireworks.  So I gathered him into my lap and held him tight.  We watched together and by the time they were over he told us that yes, indeed he does like fireworks.

And he does.  He just likes them much better from the security of his mama’s arms.  Sitting on my lap, wrapped in my embrace what had seemed frightening became beautiful.  

So often what scares us as we go it alone is what intrigues and leaves us in awe when we have God at our backs encouraging, strengthening, and guiding us.  His presence brings things into perspective, and what had seemed to be a frightening situation becomes beautiful when we rest in His embrace and let Him show us the solution.  

The artistry He uses to make all things work for our good is incredible.  It leaves me in awe.  It leaves me breathing gratitude.  Whispering words of thanksgiving.  Resting as a child in His arms.

I look behind me and you're there, then up ahead and you're there, too-your reassuring presence, coming and going.

Psalm 139:5

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28