In His Image

Marlene Custer

Where I live, winters are long and daylight is short. 

Being indoors and not mingling with people as much, we often begin to feel isolated and alone. 

To combat these gloomy days, my husband and I have planned a short get-away. 

I have long been enthralled with the beach and all that comes with it! 

I am intrigued by the tides and by the myriad of things washing up on the sands—driftwood, seashells, scurrying crabs, and fragile sand dollars. 

In addition to the beach, the waters hold an uncountable number of creatures—sleek dolphins, slimy jellyfish, and a vast array of fish.

 
In addition to enjoying the beach, I plan to spend time at the Nature Preserve viewing the unique birds—snowy egrets, blue herons, and roseate spoonbills. 

It doesn’t take much time with these gems of creation to bring my attention out of the doldrums and back to the Creator.

 
According to Scripture, God looked upon each day’s work of creation with satisfaction. Man, made in God’s image on the sixth day, He pronounced as being “very good” (cf. Genesis 1:31 NIV). 

As I observe His carefully created wonders, how can I not trust His care of me?

Jesus encouraged his listeners with this promise, “Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?” (Matthew 6:26 NIV)

Cares of this world become trivial as I focus on God and His creation. The Apostle Peter encouraged early Believers with this admonition, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7 NIV)

“Father, please help me as I apply what Jesus taught. As I spend time reading your Word, and enjoying your astounding creation, help me to set aside life’s problems and concerns, and trust you to care for me. Thank you. Amen.”

Marlene is a retired teacher striving to make Jesus known. Contact