The worldwide pandemic known as COVID-19 has created an immense diversion from our normal, daily life. During the first few weeks, I felt overwhelmed by the challenges that were developing. As a middle school teacher, what began as a one week Spring Break soon became a closure of school for the remainder of the school year with a transition to distance learning. Most people have experienced change during this unprecedented time.
Change is not always a bad thing. I’ve witnessed people caring and sharing in a manner that seemed in times past to have been overcome by judgement and selfishness. It’s refreshing. I’ve also seen people drawing closer to God with fewer distractions and declaring their faith through video devotions posted on church Facebook pages.
Isaiah 40:9 says, “O Zion, You who bring good tidings, Get up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, You who bring good tidings, Lift up your voice with strength, Lift it up, be not afraid; Say to the cities of Judah, “Behold your God!”” We are called to share the good news of salvation. We need to shout it from the mountain tops not with a voice of fear, but instead with great joy and eagerness! So often we are hesitant to share our faith, our God, and the salvation He offers. In the past few weeks, I’ve seen many in our community boldly proclaiming the love of Jesus and the change he has made in their lives.
The word “behold” means to see or observe a thing or person that is especially remarkable or impressive. When I think of beholding a thing, I think of the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. When we travel to Colorado, I always insist on visiting this park. It’s beauty just entrances me. I sit and study the magnificent rock formations and take pictures to share.
When I think of beholding my God, I feel an even greater awe! He is the one who was prophesied about and the world awaited. He is our Redeemer. His son bore our sins and died a gruesome death because of His love for each of us. He has all power in heaven and earth. He is our God and so much more! To behold Him means to study and share Him even more intently than my study and sharing pictures of rock formations. It means to study the Bible and get to know Him through prayer, and then share that good news with others.
Don’t let fear stop you. Behold your God, and then shout it from the mountaintop!
Tresa Walker - Strength Renewed 
Oh yes, Lord. May I be BOLD to shout about You from the mountaintops–the valleys too! Thank you, Tresa, for your encouragement.
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