REFLECTION By Marion Smith

The relentless waves pounded against the shoreline as I sipped my first cup of morning coffee. What a thrill it is to sit high above the Atlantic Ocean and absorb the beautiful scene before me. It was not the motion or sound of the waves that drew my attention this morning, but a small patch of ocean a short distance before me.

This area of the ocean was bright and shiny as could be, reflecting the sun above it. The surrounding areas, however, were dark and dismal, and very unappealing. Of course the clouds were the culprits… they were blocking the rays of the sun so the reflection was not possible. Before too long, the clouds began to disperse, and those golden rays began to shine upon all the water. It was a gradual procedure, but the sunlight finally took over the gloom, providing a more spectacular scene for me to enjoy.

Life is wonderful when we, like that patch of “sun reflecting water” are enjoying the sunshine days of our lives. All is well and running smoothly, and although there may be small problems we encounter, we still bask in these bright and cheerful days. However, the clouds of life may creep in our everyday existence before we know
it. Then, when all the joy and meaning of life is withheld from us, all seems hazy and gray.

We must persevere through the dismal times of life, and before too long, bits and pieces of sunlight will return to our lives. Then, slivers of joy will return, and, eventually, our lives again will receive a full dose of sunshine, reflecting all of God’s goodness in our lives. He is there when the grayness surrounds us, but the clouds of life may interfere with our reception.

We must remember to persevere. God will restore the sunshine to our lives, He promises it in His Word, the Holy Bible.