"God created mankind in his image..." - Genesis 1:27 

Do you see it in the photo above? What does it look like to you? A person? An animal? Just an old tree? What tickles your imagination? 

The hands of Nature carved this design into the tree. Without knowing the true intent, its interpretation is left to the eye of the beholder. On the other hand, there's probably a number of people who walk right past the tree and never stop to notice the artistic creation on its trunk. 

Similarly, God created us. In his image, he created us. We look at a tree and see Nature's hands at work. We look at another person and see God's hands at work. 

Or do we? 

Thinking of a busy downtown street, do we walk by each other, never stopping to notice the creations passing us by? Or do we take time to notice each handcrafted, unique, one-of-a-kind image of God? 

Master Creator of all things, thank you for creating each of us in your image and likeness. May we always take time to observe and acknowledge your handiwork with care and affection. Amen. 

TAGS: Inspiration, Prayer

"Moreover, that all can eat and drink and enjoy the good of all their toil -- this is a gift of God." - Ecclesiastes 3:13 

The dolphins were playing in the sun-drenched sea. They jumped and flipped in the air, then used their flukes to make a big splash when re-entering the water. 

Taking time to play, to "enjoy the good of all their toil", is a gift from God. We spend so much of our life at work, either through an occupation, doing chores around the house, or busying ourselves in some other way. But do we take our share of time at play to enjoy the fruits of our labor or the fruits of God? 

Find time to play and spend time at play. Make good use of this gift that God wants you to have. 

TAGS: Reflection