Scripture: James 1:2-5
Consider it pure joy, try my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Thought for the Day:  The world is a noisy place, and our attention spans are short. I know I have trouble “turning off” and letting God’s love and serenity combust in my soul. Yet, God works in us whether we are aware or not. Sometimes I think we’re kind of like God’s artwork—perfectly crafted, yet oblivious of our perfection, just as a Picasso is unaware of the brilliance of its creator.

Yet, Jesus shows us we are capable of a much deeper awareness of God; a more intimate understanding of our beauty, if we will persevere through faith. The Christ reveals that fiery spirit within that God ignites in our souls. We’re connected to God intimately yet subtly; more as watercolor than sculpture, and each of us is one of God’s remarkably beautiful canvases. Together, we are God’s masterpiece, a variety of styles spread across the canvas of humanity. We persevere because we know God is painting a new scene, and it’s glorious.

Prayer: As an artist uses a brush, use me, Holy Imaginative One, to paint a new world of love, justice, compassion and forgiveness. Amen.