As dawn breaks on this Sunday morning, I find myself in the familiar embrace of early hours, accompanied by a steaming cup of coffee and the glow of my iPad. Wrapped snugly in a blanket, it’s a ritual that has shaped my mornings since childhood—a quiet moment of solace before the day unfolds. I would get up early, take my green patchwork quilt, wrap myself in that blanket and take a moment to enjoy that feeling of warmth and chill in the parts of my body that I would sneak out into the early morning darkness.
While some families rush to dress in their Sunday best and prepare for Easter festivities, I ponder: Does this morning feel any different to you?
Perhaps for some of you, scattered across different time zones, the notion of early morning darkness may not resonate as deeply. You might already find yourselves well into the afternoon, battling post-lunch drowsiness as you read this. Yet, regardless of the hour or the cultural customs we observe, the dawn carries a universal symbolism of renewal and possibility.
In my musings, I turn to the Bible, where the book of Ruth surprisingly holds the most mentions of the word "morning." Initially, my association with morning was merely a marker of the day's progression—a transition from evening to dawn.
However, for those rooted in farming lifestyles or seasoned hunters, the significance of the early hours is profound. It's a time of opportunity, a fleeting window before the day fully awakens. Once the morning light floods the horizon, the chance to seize the moment diminishes.
Every sunrise heralds a fresh beginning, a chance to cast aside the comfort of our blankets and embark on the day ahead. Reflecting on the biblical account of God providing manna to the Israelites, I'm reminded of the temporal nature of opportunities.
The gathering of manna each morning, its sustenance fleeting by day's end, underscores the urgency of embracing the present moment. As Exodus recounts, "Each morning everyone gathered as much as they needed, and when the sun grew hot, it melted away" (Exodus 16:21 NIV11).
So, I pose the question once more: How do you feel different this morning? and what are you going to DO with THAT?
If you find yourself stirred by this moment, may it propel you towards action and kindness until the next appointed day that gives you this boost. Let today be a catalyst for realizing dreams, for bringing joy to those you love. For every sunrise brings with it the potential to make a positive impact, to illuminate the lives of others with love and compassion. (share some Good News)
Personally, I don't feel markedly different this morning. Yet, I am grateful for the warmth of my blanket, for the comfort of routine, and for the opportunity to extend prayers for a world in need of healing and hope.
May each day be imbued with the sweetness of joy, whether it be through simple pleasures or grand gestures. Let us shine forth, reflecting the love of our Creator and His Son, Jesus, in all that we do.
As we embrace the dawn of each new day, may it inspire us to seize the opportunities before us, to embody the light that dispels darkness, and to spread kindness wherever we go.
Beth giggles every time she watches a cooking account on instagram. The grandmother ends her post with a southern gentile voice. "Remember Shine for Jesus" - it reminders her of her Mother Janice.
Shalom Y'all.
Tomorrow is a promise, get er done - Today.
-- this post is brought to you by the grace of Yeshua the Messiah.
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