Just a few weeks ago, the photos came in to me through some texts. Driving in NYC can be stressful under any conditions, but especially when going in for a doctor appointment. Having moved away some forty one years ago now, it’s always interesting to see photos of the city I once had lived.
This particular ride for my family member provided photo opportunities which I very much enjoyed. It passed the time for him and provided engaging conversation for us both. Before long, they were all headed home.
Only a few days later, I needed to take a trip into Boston with a family member for a doctor’s appointment. It was a new to me place and meant a ride through the tunnel, which is not my favorite of places to be. So I decided to pass the time with sending photos of my ride to my NY family member.
A few days later, I read the account of Joshua and Caleb and the spies, who went out to scope the land God had promised to the people. In bringing back their report, Joshua and Caleb admitted the land was flowing with milk and honey, the people were strong and the cities fortified. But they ended with saying this:
“We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.” (Numbers 13:30, NASB)
Ten of the spies came back with a very negative report and before anyone knew what was happening, the negativity spread.
Joshua and Caleb stayed focused on the promises God had given to them regarding their lives. They saw the potential the new land held for them and all the possibilities the days ahead would hold.
In scrolling back through my photos of both NYC and Boston, i saw one important similarity – each of us had chosen to take photos while looking upwards.
Our eyes were up and so the trip into our respective cities passed without any anxiety, wrapped in the peace brought from where we chose to keep our gaze.
Jesus, in talking with His disciples, told them of things that were yet to come. There would be dark and hard days which would bring distress upon the land and people. Then He tells them this:
“But when these things begin to take place, straighten up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” (Luke 21:28, NASB)
It gave the disciples hope then and it should do the same for us. Today might be a good day to look up, set your sights higher. Look above your circumstances, beyond the challenges you may be facing, and see the One who will be with you every step of the way.
“For He Himself has said, “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.”
(Hebrews 13:5, NASB)
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you. If you share on social media, the hashtag #LetsHaveCoffee would be greatly appreciated!
You are invited to the Inlinkz link party!
NYC Photos taken by: Photo by David Tommasino
Today I am joining ā¦
If there is ever a time we need to be looking up, it’s now. Looking around on every side can be so discouraging. But God sees the bigger picture and has all the wisdom and power in the world. How we need to trust Him.
Yes, “Oh for grace to trust Him more!”
What a great alternative to my tendency to focus inward! Certainly, the answers or the encouragement I seek will not be found there — nor in the refrigerator…Ć°ÅøĖā
Michele, you have made a very good point – there is only One place to find our answers.
‘Today might be a good day to look up.’ Amen! Perspective changes everything! Thanks, Joanne, for this reminder to fix our eyes on the One who will be with us every step of the way.
Yes, every single step.
I’ve been considering doing a series on Caleb…is this my nudge??? xoxo
Could be š I’ve absorbed a few lessons from Caleb over the last week.
My favorite radio program of all time had a closing tag line of “Keep looking up, cause that’s where it all is.”
Lauren, I love the quote!
Thank you, Joanne, for the reminder to look up! With many decisions for our personal life whirring around us and prayer requests for others, I find myself caught up in the road straight ahead instead of looking up for God’s direction.
Janis, may the road ahead become clearer and smoother as you look up.
This is a good reminder to keep our gaze up. I think the tenancy these days with all of the uncertainty and discord swirling around is to cast our eyes downward. Looking in God’s direction is always a better way to live!
I did not know you lived in NYC. I am too timid to drive there. I always take the train when I go visit! š
I grew up in NYC and moved to just outside Boston when I married. I have been living here now 41 years š I do not enjoy driving in either city. But I do what I need to do and then am glad to get home.
My husband has been reminding our church family for the need for elevated sight in the midst of our current circumstances. God is so good to always confirm and remind us of what He is saying!