Have you ever looked at a map of the world?
Look at Texas with me just for a second.
That picture, with the Panhandle and the Gulf Coast,
and the Red River and the Rio Grande. . .
As soon as anyone anywhere in the world
looks at it, they know what it is.
It’s Texas.
~Excerpt from Anonymous Author

The photos make it obvious I am in Texas, but knowing that I’m living anywhere in God’s world is equally as obvious because of the undeniable iconic images of His reality found everywhere in Creation. For example, here as elsewhere, I can see the colors of earth, sky, and flowery faces that tell of His glory and love of beauty.  Also the touch of His hands can be felt in the warmth of the sun, and in the changing seasons and periods of resting, His rhythm of life becomes clear.  In the great lights of the sky, I can glimpse the shining of His everlasting faithfulness.  In the quiet of the night, the stars and the moon that He flung into space speak His name and tell of His mighty power.  I can see God’s face in all peoples because we are all made in His image.  In the vitality that shines forth in those faces, I can see God’s strength.  In the laughter of their voices I become aware of the Lord’s goodness and grace.  From the insights of wisdom seekers, I can hear His voice and His truths.  In my relationships, His love is made known; in my deepest yearnings, I feel His presence and sense His divine design.  In unforeseen moments of wonder, awe, or passion I feel stirrings of His creative spirit.  In my soul searching, His nearness is palpable, and in fears that come in the darkness of the night, I encounter His comforting companionship.  In my brokeness and suffering His mercy shines through, and when my flesh is wounded and my body bleeds, the face of Jesus who shed His blood for my redemption shines as brightly here as anywhere else on earth.

Wealth and honor come from You; You are ruler of all things.  In Your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.  Now, our God, we give You thanks, and praise Your glorious name.  ~1 Chronicles 29:12-13  ✝