“So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” – 2 Corinthians 4:18

Yesterday my wife and I got to experience a bittersweet moment. We went back to the site of Black Forrest Camp and Conference Center north of Colorado Springs. Stephanie and I both attended that camp as kids and worked there in college. It held a very special place in our hearts, so much so that over 26 years ago I proposed to her at “high vespers” there (an outdoor worship area on a high hill looking out at Pikes Peak). Well, almost two decades ago the camp was demolished and the whole area is now filled with high-end homes. It was heartbreaking to see. However, a remnant of high vespers is still left on one of the community hiking trails. So, we were able to go revisit that spot and show our kids where we got engaged. As sad as it is that the camp is gone, being able to see that place again was a beautiful thing.

At the end of the day, I had a thought on the way home: even if high vespers had also been destroyed, you know what still exists to this day? Our marriage. Because of many years, many blessings, and many struggles, Stephanie and I now have a relationship that is stronger than ever. The beauty of that day was not in the smell of pine trees, Pikes Peak, or the view overlooking the city. The real beauty was two followers of Christ committed to loving him and loving one another for the rest of their lives. God has given us an incredible world to live in. However, fixing our eyes on this world will eventually lead to disappointment; it will all be destroyed. Set your gaze on the things of eternal importance. Those things hold the beauty that you will experience forever.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the incredible beauty all around us. But help us to keep our eyes fixed on the beauty that will never fade. Keep our focus on the unseen things of eternity.

In Christ’s Service,

Pastor Shane Cannon