“Never say there is nothing beautiful in the world anymore. There is always something to make you wonder in the shape of a tree, the trembling of a leaf.” Albert Schweitzer
A part of Advent is opening our hearts and lives to God’s presence, to God’s glory. Two weeks ago my brother and I visited Smith Mountain Lake in southwest Virginia – a place we had never been before.
All week long we were blown away by the glorious fall TREES!
Everywhere we looked (& hiked) gasp-gorgeous trees took our breath away.
It was interesting to note how the trees looked different in the misty early morning light. Just like sometimes amidst the challenges of our daily lives the extent of God’s grandeur may be shrouded in mists of confusion and doubt.
The same view after the sun came out!
But, God’s grandeur – like God’s love – doesn’t change
On this first Advent Monday, take a look around. Let God’s grace melt the mists of doubt in our hearts – whatever is clouding our being alive to God’s grandeur around us, and within us.
“The Glory of God is a human being fully alive.” St. Irenaeus
grace, peace & grandeur
Virginia : )
p.s. Although Virginia was off the blogosphere for a month, she will once again attempt her post-a-day Advent gig. A short quote, a photo, a song, something Advent-ish or holiday-ish – note the key word: short! (Prayers welcome!)
Roses in the Rubble 
Nice to see you back here, Miss Virginia. I’ll try to pop over now and again to read your Advent posts, but no promises, ‘k? This is such a hectic time of year — no wonder God calls us to be patient in our waiting. What gorgeous TALL trees you’ve found to share with us!
Glad you enjoyed the trees, Debbie. December is a crazy time of year! Hope this will be a good Advent for you! Blessings & internet hugs! Virginia
Love this connection of the misty view with our own clouded view at times! Thank you.
Hi Rachel, hope that your Advent is blessed with extra doses of grace, hope, peace – and love!
Love all the different transitions in the photo 😊
Thank you, Susie. You are in my thoughts & prayers as you face these holidays without Len. Much love to you!
Our Reformed brethren tell us that God’s second book is nature.
Amen, Kenneth! The grandeur of the colors we experienced at Smith Mountain Lake was truly God’s Heavenly paintbrushes busy at work — Hope all is well with you!
Gorgeous photos and inspiring quotes to go with! Will pray for daily advent blogging efforts. 🙏 ✍️ 😇
Thanks, Cin. We had an amazing trip there — every day there seemed to be colors hiding behind brown vistas – God’s heavenly paintbrushes busy at work. Thanks for your prayers! Much love & hugs!