Sunrise at the Mediterranean Sea

“Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.”
‭‭Daniel‬ ‭12:3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

As I sit on my hotel balcony, awaiting the sunrise over the Mediterranean Sea, I realize it’s not an ordinary Monday. It’s a quiet moment of peace and clarity. It’s as simple and complex as the moon currently shining in the blush sky. I’ve had the epiphany that a lot of trial has led me to this place of reward. 

I am on a trip to Israel for business for an assignment that has stretched me. My initial thought was “why, God, did you have me take this assignment?” The correct question was “what do you want me to learn, God?” (My mother taught me that!) And, I have received His answer. 

His answer is I can have joy in any situation if I truly believe He is working all things for my good. (The song “All Things” by David and Nicole Binion ran through my head when I wrote that.) I know I am fearfully and wonderfully made. It is the difference in me that I shall celebrate and embrace. He has put me here for a reason. 

During my assignment, I have continually asked God to give me wisdom with an understanding heart, so that I may execute my mission well regardless of my sacrifice. That is simply the right thing to do and He put me in place to do it. Now at the height of what I’ve been charged to accomplish, I feel the peace of my contribution.

The reward is not just the beautiful views of God’s country. It is a closeness I feel to Him being in Israel and Him physically being in me through the Holy Spirit. There is no replacement for a relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior! This calm, peaceful fullness I feel, while in awe absorbing in His creation, is the Son rising in me. I will shine on and I pray I do lead many to righteousness in this purpose He has given me...Authentic Existence®!