It is Good

It is Very Good

“And God looked upon all that He had made, and indeed, it was very good. And there was evening, and there was morning—the sixth day.” Genesis 1:31 Berean Standard Bible

“Well done is better than well said.” –Benjamin Franklin

We are created in the Image of God. We have thoughts, actions and creations that are very good, just like our Father. Have you ever stopped during the day and admired something you did? Your garden? Your children? Your charity? Your art?

We all are creative. We all are good at something. I know this because the Bible says we are his handiwork with specific work to do. Jesus was a mason/carpenter but that is not what we think of first.  I think of Barnabas doing work for the early Christian church. Not much was or is known about him except his nickname: the Encourager. If anyone really needed encouragement, it was the early Christians. Oh, how good!

It changes during our lifetimes. When we’re young, we’re making mistakes and deep into self-discovery. This could be in college or career, but the enthusiasm! The energy! Something motivating happens when we’re learning. From learning to walk, winning at sports or contests to the first prom, these experiences are good. It’s very good. Take a look at your ribbons or A+ Math test. Realize they’re good. The foundations and encouragement to take calculated risks.

When we’re in the middle-age, we’re at our prime. We’ve got a rhythm to our life even though it may be at supersonic speed. We overcome many challenges, mentor others and incorporate the lessons into a real, rich and full life. We have families and communities that grow and love. I know my son is very active in a group that helps the veterans. He and his group come up with creative ways to raise funds for the veterans as well as honor them.  The veterans don’t necessarily know what they do for a living or how many children they have but they know they have help and respect. It’s very good. His heart and the hearts of his group have grown. The compassion is genuine. This time of life is so good. We may not stop to realize just how good.

And the Golden Years. The retirement years may not be so golden, especially for those whose partners are chronically ill or have passed. When my husband was in full-time care, I observed the elderly as they shared a meal, a hand caress, or just a smile. It was so good. They would sing songs and play cards no matter their disabilities or loneliness. The local ranchers would bring miniature horses for the residents to enjoy. This is so very good. And those older, much older than my husband and me, sat with me and just offered their authentic compassion. It was good. Very good, though the situation was painful.

We need to stop and notice the good. The very good in us. The good we produce. With thanks for the talents, empathy and artistry our Father has given us.

Musings

Stop today and look at your well-cooked meal, your laughing children, your vegetable garden, your vintage car. These are good things that make life so pleasant. These are works that may not have a salary but add so much enjoyment to life for you and others. If you don’t know your unique talents, please pray and enlist a close friend to counsel you. You possess something very special and good.

Prayer

Dear Father,

We pause and thank You for making us in your likeness with good things to do and enjoy. We get so hurried and anxious in life and forget to stop, breathe, thank and enjoy the things we can do. And it’s good. Very good.

Amen.