We've had some unusual days this winter, haven't we? And the oddities continue as our forecast shows a mix of freezing days and balmier days in the 70's. That can prove challenging - almost creating a roller coaster mix of emotions as your body can't quiet adjust to this odd rhythm. I invite you to take advantage of this strange rhythm and do something intentionally every day: Look around you; sense God's presence and the gift of grace unfolding before your very eyes.

A powerful moment of awareness came for me during a trip to the Grand Canyon. I got up before sunrise because the rest of my traveling companions were annoying me beyond belief and I sorely needed some alone time. While everyone else was snoring away, I grabbed my Bible, found a spot at the edge of the south rim of the canyon and began reading Genesis 1 - s.l.o.w.l.y. Lo and behold (I kid you not!) the scripture began to unfold right before my very eyes!

'Let there be light', and there it was - the rising sun! Water - and there was the river far below! Plants - everywhere! Creatures - seriously, as I read 'Let the earth bring forth living creatures of every kind: cattle and creeping things and wild animals of the earth of every kind,' a ram with huge horns appeared just below my feet, nibbled on a plant and then quickly dashed away. And then - 'Let us make humankind' - and I looked up and saw that people were beginning to mill about - talking and smiling - along the walkway nearby.

It was so amazing to me that God chose that very moment to unravel creation - as each and every object was placed at just the right moment - for me to see. For me - and ONLY me! God showed such love for me that all that was done exclusively for me... Well, actually, we know that's not how God works. What changed in that moment was NOT what God had placed in front of me. What changed in that moment was that I had chosen to place myself in front of God and God's creation.

Now, your view today may not be as majestic as the Grand Canyon. It's likely to be one that is cold and dark - or it may be a view filled with sunshine and warmth. God has not placed those conditions in front of you for you to dread or for your complete enjoyment - but today you are invited to place yourself in front of God and God's creation, no matter where you are and no matter what's in your view.

And once you do, watch out! Because God will surprise you in beautiful ways and change your entire outlook on what's around you, and your place within it. May every moment be full of grace and mercy as you experience God in new and powerful ways, especially during the odd rhythms in this season of life!

De Colores!