November is a month of shortened darker days, where colours can seem grey and dull. However, like the sudden appearance of a rainbow, there can be times of ‘rainbow moments’; a burst of colour, and memories which stay with us. Why not think of times when images surprised us, made us stop and think, maybe even changed us?
Think of a time or a memory of colour in your life. Maybe it was a special event or a view captured whilst out walking. Try to remember how you felt at the time.
Ezekiel, the prophet, who was seen as someone inspired by God, had just such a moment:
‘Like the bow in a cloud on a rainy day, such was the appearance of the splendour all around. This was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord.’
(Ezekiel 1:28)
Genesis 9:13 tells us the rainbow was a visible sign given by God Himself that He would fulfil His promise to never again flood the whole earth. How good it is to remind ourselves that God will never break His promises! The promises of God are certain, and there is a promise for every situation, every need, and every circumstance. When life feels dull, dark and uncertain, we can remind ourselves to stand on the solid rock of these promises of God.
Ezekiel recognises the splendour, the wonder of the bow and in his mind, he sees this as a reflection of the glory of the Lord. For a moment his mind has another focus. How wonderful God is for him.
I wonder if you have ever had such a moment as Ezekiel? When you stopped and witnessed something amazing?
You may have witnessed new life…maybe the new life of a baby or seeing a view for the first time whilst walking. As a gardener, seeing green new shoots or opening the curtains and seeing a deeply orange or pink sunrise or sunset. Like rainbows, memories can be fleeting, but they are treasured thoughts of our life and experiences. Let these memories stay with you. There may be times when the world looks grey, and you feel low in mood. However, think back to the colourful times and remember how you felt. Remember what God promises to His children. Why not draw or write down your thoughts of these times or use a material such as felt, fabric or wool or take a photo?
To lift our hearts, remember God’s promises. He is always with us (Joshua 1:9). You might like to listen to this song by Louis Armstrong - What a wonderful world God has made! The song is accompanied with beautiful photographs by Ethan Carey, it may just lift your heart and soul and give you a ‘rainbow moment’.