A New Pattern

Mark Chambers, in my novel Melody of Life, is nearly crushed by his life’s circumstances, and he asks God, “Why?”

Romans 8:28 is a great verse to memorize and remember when we or others face difficulties. “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” But it takes faith to truly apply it personally when life takes an unexpected and painful turn.

I remember how a kaleidoscope fascinated me when I was a child. When I held the kaleidoscope up to a light source, peered into the eyehole at one end, and turned it, beautiful new patterns would appear.

I wrote the following poem years ago, comparing life to a kaleidoscope.

Life is a kaleidoscope

Like colorful pebbles collecting on the sand,

making a pattern in a beautiful, intricate design.

And I think, “This is it! This is my life!”

set like a stained-glass window.

Then — brilliance overshadowed, Like the sun behind a cloud:

light fades to dark,

joy turns to sorrow,

laughter shifts to pain,

success becomes failure —

Like a turning kaleidoscope a new pattern emerges, unexpected!

And I realize God is designing me, A new pattern for a purpose — HIs glory!

Here is a second poem about God’s faithfulness.

Under HIs wings, folded close to His heart,

I need not be fearful nor fret.

God’s always near to me, so very dear to me,

He’s never failed me yet.

Though I forget Him, wander away

When lured by temptation’s fair gleam,

When I become weary, faint-hearted and dreary,

His wings give an inviting beam.

When shadows fall round me, and life bears down on me,

He still wants for me what is best.

His guidance and care are there for the asking —

His wings offer comfort and rest.