Category Archives: Creation

Grace, Previous Grace

Janis Van Keuren

     Rays from heaven broke through the cloud-filled sky like a beam of God’s glory and grace pouring down on the earth.  Sun’s light piercing the clouds splintering into ray’s streaks have impressed my soul with spiritual significance since childhood. Rollerskating round the corner or jumping rope with friends, the slats of light brought my heart to worship the Holy God from whom this radiance seemed to emanate.  My childhood imagination captivated by the wonder.     Tonight, as rays streaked across … Continue reading →

How Far Have You Ventured Out?

Janis Van Keuren

Rocky ledges jutting out along the coast within Point Lobos State Reserve      So near the splashing waves and droplets of water spray, I perched on a craggy ledge poking into the sea.  There I drank in the water and tingled as the exhilarating waves crashed against the volcanic rock.  Hubby and I were on an escape. A time of refreshment and rest.  A blessed retreat to Carmel, CA.     The ocean was luring me closer.  I asked Hubby if I … Continue reading →

Rule Breaking–A PhotoPlay

Janis Van Keuren

   A Stroll Through Carmel One of many floral varieties gracing the streets of Carmel (example of two thirds of photo)      It’s time to break some rules, divide our photos into thirds or ninths, and jump into the summer PhotoPlay prompted by Claire at HighCallingBlogs.  I’ve never been much of a rule breaker, and I’m pretty predictable regarding the things I like whether it’s food or photos.  I’m smitten with sunsets and crashing ocean waves.  Flowers alive with … Continue reading →

Rest–For It Is Rare To Rest

Janis Van Keuren

     Time alone.  Just the two of us.  Time to refresh our spirits, our marriage, our romance.     From the airport, we took the scenic, woodsy route to our destination.  A road that shifted gears from the racing daily pace and gently eased us into neutral, calmer moments. Stands of Coastal Redwoods lined the narrow winding road beckoning us to roll down the windows and let the surrounding beauty fill our minds with wonder and praise. They marked the … Continue reading →

The Land of the Free and Home of the Brave

Janis Van Keuren

     Last summer, we had the unique privilege of providing a home, a nesting spot for a Morning Dove and her two fledglings.  Perched in a crook of our front door wreath, the mama created her home, gathering extra twigs and dried grass to loosely pad the floor.  Above the flaming red roses and delicate,white poppies, the mama dove settled in. Twisted garland of sparkling stars added a touch of elegance to her newly made home. Behind a mini … Continue reading →

Creation Speaks

Janis Van Keuren

Ocean off Carmel from Point Lobos      Creation speaks loudly of God and His characteristics.  It is here that I experience Him most deeply.  But to those who stand in awe and wonder at the crashing waves or a summer sunset or tremble at the thundering power of a storm, their inmost being declares to them that there is a God.  No matter how hard they try to resist.        “since what may be known about God is plain to … Continue reading →

The Sea is His

Janis Van Keuren

 Carmel from Pt. Lobos State Park      Framed for my memory is this scene among the cypress groves overlooking the Northern Coast of California.  Colors of aqua, blue, and white were churned by the day’s blustery winds, but the only thing my heart grabs is the beauty of the Creator’s hand.  His creation touches my inmost being, which echoes with love and praise as the waves crash against the rocks.  Here I find His strength, peace, and magnificence.        … Continue reading →

Restored in the Dark

Janis Van Keuren

         Evening twilight had cast its long shadow across the desert as I began wrapping up the day’s work on our home computer.  A sudden hiccup in the electrical power blinked the computer screen and darkened the house for a second.  A surge of power flicked the lights and computer screen back on–then everything turned to dusk.  Inside and outside our home.      READ MORE at Jennifer Janes blog, where I wrote the guest post for today.  You will … Continue reading →

Refreshing Rains

Janis Van Keuren

     Refreshing rains fall from the heavens above and wet this desert land.  A late spring rain gives the earth its last free drink of water until the summer monsoons sizzle on the hot dirt.     The chilly air blows in and I wrap myself in the warmth of a fuzzy sweatshirt.  Probably my last chance until temperatures drop again next fall.      The air smells clean and free.  My heart dances as the rain washes away the dirt-clogs of my … Continue reading →

A Stream in the Desert

Janis Van Keuren

          Like three giddy girls, we begin our day of exploring Arizona’s Sabino Canyon. We long to hike beside the stream that hopefully still holds water from winter snow and heavy rains.  Unlike most years, this spring the desert is ablaze with flowers–blue lupines, desert marigolds, purple-pink penstemon.  I hold a map of the canyon’s hiking trails and attempt to lead our trio on an unforgettable hike.      Two steps and one of us stops to snap a picture.  … Continue reading →