In Plain Sight

by Nancy Kay Grace

Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. Psalm 34:8 NIV

The concrete steps descended into the damp, cool darkness below ground. We followed the guide, holding onto the metal handrail.

My vision gradually adjusted from the bright outdoor sun to the dim underground world. The tour guide pointed her flashlight on the walls revealing previously unseen shapes. Around us were large calcite formations—a Tyrannosaurus Rex, a pipe organ, a large fish, and more. These sights were hidden until we became aware of them in the large, crystal-domed cavern eight stories below ground.

We safely explored the cave with the help of a knowledgeable guide. She went before us, turning on light switches to the next section of the tour, preparing the way for us to navigate the cave.

On the way out, she paused, revealing some small living creatures on the limestone walls—cave crickets, small salamanders, toads, and bats. The critters were always present, but we had walked by them, not noticing the life on the cave walls. Once we saw them, they were in plain sight.

Daily blessings are in plain sight.

Isn’t our cave experience a great metaphor for our lives? We rush past marvelous gifts from God every day without noticing them—the blooming trees, colorful gardens, or the evening sunset. In our busyness, we can easily miss seeing God’s beauty in the seasonal changes. We complain about the clouds and rain, but they help us appreciate the sunny days. The earth is renewed, revealing the new life all around us in the bright tulips and fragrant lilacs. God’s creativity is in plain sight… if we will only open our eyes.

We can be too preoccupied with our concerns to see someone else’s need. A struggling new mom might need babysitting assistance. A lonely neighbor could need conversation and encouragement. Perhaps we could step out of our comfort zone to help them. As we open our eyes to the people around us, we can extend grace in this hurting world.

The apostle Paul writes, “I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints and his incomparably great power for us who believe” (Ephesians 1:18 NIV).

Each day, may we pray for God to open our eyes to see the riches of creation around us and ways to be God’s hands and feet in the world. When we do, he empowers us to have a grateful heart and share his love with those in plain sight.

This article is brought to you by the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA).

About the author: Nancy Kay Grace is thankful for the gift of peace in the face of turmoil. She is a speaker and award-winning author of The Grace Impact, a devotional about the touch of God. As a cancer survivor, she writes about hope, perseverance, and God’s grace. For relaxation, Nancy enjoys hugs from grandchildren, playing worship songs on piano, hiking, and travel. Her website, blog, and GraceNotes newsletter sign-up are found at www.nancykaygrace.com.

Join the conversation: What blessings from God have you noticed lately?