As I’ve pursued photography, I’ve learned there’s all kinds of photos including a huge standalone category called “Photos I should have taken” or perhaps, “Missed Opportunities”.

We had pointed the truck toward home and were rolling through the Colorado plains on US 24.  Literally, nothing but us and the gathering storm clouds as far as the eye could see.  The sun was behind us and the darkness was before us.  I had never seen such a sight!

The “Photo I Should Have Taken” was the same scene, but I should have taken it from the center of the road and captured it using Veronica.  Yes, I’ve named my camera Veronica.  The lenses all have names, too! 😊

I was too chicken to take the chance, though.   I settled for snapping this Magnificent Display through the windshield of a pickup truck using my iPhone.   Yes, I did that.   “Why did I do that?” is the question I ask myself every time I see this capture.  There’s no good reason.  The honest answer is mostly because I was wary of standing in the middle of deserted US 24 and I was afraid of these clouds that were still miles ahead. 

It makes me wonder what is the true cost of fear and anxiety?  How many Missed Opportunities? How much time lost, health compromised, sleep forfeited, and faith fractured?

And how would life be different if I were braver? Had more faith?

Exchanging anxiety for bravery is not often easy.  I come from a family with strong women.  They were strong.   So am I.  They were Champion Worriers.  So am I.   We are usually prepared for anything because we have already worried about everything beforehand.  It can be exhausting. 

Yet, my Scriptures say, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”  (Deuteronomy 31:8, NIV)  Right along with “Even though I walk (drive) through the darkest valley (storm), I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4. These are the verses I feel in my heart when I look at this photo.

The storm was scary that day, but there was no other path.  Our only option was forward.  We checked the radar on our phones, grateful for signal in The Middle of Nowhere.  My midwestern heart felt sure there was a tornado lurking in there somewhere, but the radar said no.  We decided to say a prayer and forge ahead.  Hammer down!  Our strategy was to go forward as safely and as quickly as possible until we got to the other side of the storm.  Something for me to think about today as we forge ahead and find our way through uncertain times such as these.

Storms are going to come, no doubt about it.  The year 2020 has been a reminder to me to look to His Word, practice being faithful, practice being brave, and trusting that The Lord himself goes before me, leading the way to the other side of the storm.

Thank you, Jesus.