Closed for renovation

Some years ago, the museum in our city closed its doors for four years of renovations. At the time I remember a vague sense of disappointment that one of our free rainy day activities was now gone. The Museum was dated and quite average in its attractions, but it was still a place to take visitors and fill in some time. 

Yesterday I noticed they’ve changed the graphics on the construction fence surrounding the worksite. I paused to take in the artists impression of the new museum. It’s beautiful. It looks so engaging and inviting. 

I am struck with the realization that I hadn’t even comprehended what a new museum would possibly be like. I guess I assumed more of the same - just better able to withstand earthquakes. I never stopped to consider that the closing down and careful work on something that was ‘doing the job just fine’ could actually be a really positive move for the future. 

Hope often takes me by surprise. 

We are currently at the end of one season - and the beginning of another. I have focused on what is lost - grieved what is no more. Lamented that something that was ‘doing the job just fine’ is coming to an end. I repent that I have given no thought to what could be - for us and for those affected. My mind hasn’t even entertained the potential of the promise of new possibilities. 

It is a beautiful gift from God to get glimpses of beauty that is yet to come. And for this I am thankful.