A flower emerges in the burned landscape of the Smoky Mountains after the horrific fire in 2016. The devastation and loss to this area was catastrophic. I remember thick layers of smoke hovering over the valleys surrounding the mountains and blocking the sun. Our beautiful landscape had become dark and grey and full of sadness.

But then new life emerges. And beauty and wonder return. Hope springs forth and the mountains are alive once again. Like this flower–beauty arising from the ashes.

It was a reminder to me. God is so amazing. He creates beauty out of ashes and brings healing from heart break. He can breathe new life into the scarred landscape of our hearts. He can take our broken lives and create a vessel of honor and beauty. Like this flower—beauty arising from the ashes.
My God is the God of hope. I am so grateful.