Since the onset of COVID-19 in the United States, I have taken evening walks with my wife and middle son. We walk at a brisk pace, talking and observing six feet from others. We notice walkers, runners, bicycle enthusiasts, skateboards, roller blades, strollers and little red wagons. The weather feels like the air conditioning is on in Dallas. I’ve noticed blossoms with bright colors, flowers, and plants. 

My daily neighborhood tour has me focused on the beauty of God’s creation. I wonder if my previous walks were too full of worry or concern that I missed the beauty all around me?

I am reminded of these words of Jesus: 

“And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet, I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear? For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his Kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:28-34 NIV).

To worry is to give way to anxiety or unease; to allow one’s mind to dwell on difficulty or troubles. We are definitely experiencing difficulty during the COVID-19 pandemic. Life is not the same. Yet, these walks have refocused my vision on God’s creation and my mind on his ability to provide. I am not worried about anything. I am confident God will provide all we need for our families and ministry. I trust him and his Word. 

“All men are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of the Lord stands forever” (1 Peter 1:24-25, NIV). 

So, join me and take a walk, don’t worry and be happy.

Written by Albert Reyes, president and CEO of Buckner International.

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