I want to start out tonight by just thanking you for such an incredible outpouring of compassion and love on Monday’s post.
It was definitely one of my more raw ones recently – opening up about the challenges of singleness – (ahem…feeling alone). And I was just so grateful for the kindness you showed.

Quite honestly, I feel as though my life has done a bit of a whirlwind somersault since then. Thankfully, I’m with my family this week for the Fourth of July and for my new twin nephews baptisms! And quite frankly, this vacation with them couldn’t have come at a better time.

Knowing the place my heart was in last week — to go to a full on love fest of family and togetherness really did wonders to my spirit.

You know, it’s funny. Ever since my prayer last week, inviting God to reveal His plans for my life, it’s as though He’s been making Himself known as clear as day.

Coming home to a baptism where I was so tangibly reminded of our renewal in Christ, and receiving His light — it was as though He was like — OK Care, let’s get back to the foundation here. Square One.
Looking into those precious babies eyes and feeling my heart swell to the point of explosion – I was given a tiny glimpse at how God looks at me. As His child. And that really sparked my spirit.

And then being up here at our lake home in Wisconsin, there is such a closeness with God that I feel, surrounded by all of the nature. And in particular, the sunsets. Each one more spectacular than the next. And each one, a love letter, to us, His children.

I mean, how can you see that and not feel loved? It’s such clear evidence that God longs to be with us – He wants us to think about Him – so He gives us this incredible goodnight kiss every night in the sky.

It is amazing.

All this to say, that we need only to open our eyes — to see with eyes of faith — then we will realize that God’s love for us is all around.
In the joy of a child, a hug from a loved one. The brilliance of nature and all its wonder. The beauty of the Church and the sacraments that He left to us, to experience Him in a sacred and tangible way.

We are loved beyond measure.

I hope you all have an absolutely wonderful Fourth. And I pray that we can all experience this weekend through the eyes of faith and see just how loved we really are.
What are you doing for the Fourth of July? Family reunion? Barbecue? Day at the lake?
“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5
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141 responses to “Seeing with Eyes of Faith”
All the photos are gorgeous Caralyn! And you look so radiant! I’m happy you’ve got precious time with family. I’m hanging at home since the family is all back across Lake Michigan from you in Michigan… π
Hi John! Thanks so much π it was a really special day!! Hugs and love xox
It has been awhile since I held and played with a youngster. . . .maybe too long. -Jeff
Aww yeah theyβre such radiant little tykes. Thanks Jeff for stopping by! Hugs and love xox
So glad you are having a wonderful time with family. Yes, God does love us beyond measure π
Thanks π yeah it is a beautiful time together!! Hugs and love xox
Hello Friends and Family, Please help donate to my GoFundMe, every little counts. Help a friend in need. Thank you so much you guysβ€οΈ. https://www.gofundme.com/f/?utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_na+share-sheet&rcid=ad0f05f8ff2f47929326ec92a39df713 π
Good stuff. We are gathering at my sister’s on Saturday. That will be the 100th birthday of my mother. Mom died in 1995, but the day will be special anyway.
Thanks so much David! Oh my goodness what a special occasion. I hope itβs a beautiful time. Hugs and love xox
Thanks. It will be.
ππΌππΌππΌ
One thing leads to the other, doesn’t it? We have to slow ourselves down–or be slowed down– and take the time to exhale. And if we do, our eyes open and we will realize a smorgasbord of blessings all around us! And I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been uplifted by a child’s hug; magical! God bless– Mike
Hi Mike! Thanks for this. Youβre so right – a SMORGASBORD of blessings!! Hugs and love xox
I’m so happy that it has been a time of renewal for you! We all need those seasons in life.
Thanks Brendan. A definite tome of renewal for sure! Hugs and love xox
A feeling of loneliness is one of those human concerns that is at the core of our being. We have to deal with feeling lonely in a world that lives in communion. We must deal with anxiety head-on as nothing is certain in our lives. Finally, we must deal with futility. We need meaning in our life for a sense of purpose.
Happy 4th!!
I think youβre so right about that. Meaning in our lives! Hugs and love xox
Happy 4th of July!
Happy fourth Dawn!! Hugs and love xox
βwe need only to open our eyes β to see with eyes of faith β then we will realize that Godβs love for us is all around.β
This is an amazing statement!
Iβm glad God has you right where you needed to beβwith your family over the 4th.
God is good.
Hi David! Thanks so much π Iβm so glad it resonated with you! And amen – He has given me a huge blessing of time with family this week. Hugs and love xox
So glad you had a great week.
Thanks friend. Yes I am so grateful for the time with my loved ones. Hugs and love xox
“Your descriptions of seeing God in Nature remind me of the Book of Romans, chapter 1, verses 19 & 20: “They know the truth about God because He has made it obvious to them. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see His invisible qualities; His eternal power and divine nature.”
Thank you for sharing from your heart.
Oh wow Iβll have to go back and reread that chapter! Thank you! Amen His invisible qualities! Hugs and love xox
now you are making you feel loved. I will say that the man who finally lays eyes on you will be very blessed.
Oh JB, you are too kind. Thank you my dear friend. Means a lot. Hugs and love xox
You are very graciously welcome BBB. You are a great lady to be kind to. Hugs and love to YOU!!
π xoxoxoxox
π π π xoxoxoxox
From my favourite old testament book, Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 beginning at the first verse.
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.”
Caralyn I wish you peace and love!
Oh wow I love these verses! Thank you for sharing them with me!! A time to live indeed! Hugs and love xox
I think you are an awesome woman and person! you are not nor will you ever be alone. You have a strength most don’t have.
Oh my gosh you are so kind to say that. Thank you so much. God is good and empowers us all!! Hugs and love xox
I do know how busy you are trust me on that lol
When you have the time I would still like to talk briefly about my gf. I have some concerns that I know you may be able to help with, hopefully you kept my Email address but if not let me know and Iβll post it again here.
Thank you π
I did mean everything I said it the comment.
You seem to be a wonderful person from what Iβve seen.
Thank you. Would be happy to talk
Thank you! How would be the best way to discuss this with you?
Email!
James_h_ward@outlook.com and thank you again!
Happy 4th sweet lady, you look so beautiful today. Love the Wisconsin sky pics.
Have fourth to you too Billy!! Aw thank you. I hope youβre having an amazing holiday weekend! Oh Wisconsin has the most beautiful sunsets!! Hugs and love xox
Love you, dear one! Your openness and vulnerability are so precious – just as you are! I’m glad you had a day with babies and baptism and family and reassurance. Yes, God loves you and me! We had a full day. I will post about it on JanBeek. It ended with a lovely dinner at our neighbor/friends. It’s not over yet! Hugs to you… <3
Thanks so much Jan!! Youβre very kind to say that π yes! It was a really special day!! Canβt wait to read all about yours! Hugs and love xox
“You can’t…you’re not…you won’t…”
You are βΊ.
It’s good to read you’re growing in your faith everyday, regardless of the naysayers; whether physical, mental, or spiritual.
Lonliness was the reason two were created instead of leaving man alone.
But of course, if Adam would have tried trading his first one back in after she broke (fruit thing), we’d still be vegans buck naked in a garden… ππ… that aside from the point, you’re growing, learning, walking, and running your race of faith; keeping focused on Christ. That itself is a blessing to read.
So stay true to your journey with Christ, keep the faith, and God bless you & your family.
Oh wow thank you π May we all run our races of faith! Big hugs to you xox
Several years ago a friend told me he was jealous of me because I could see a tree and find a truth about God in it. lol! Fast forward to the last couple of years of major depression, suicidal thoughts, loneliness, and self hatred, I was driving one day and saw a beautiful sunset (which used to be my favorite pastime) and I felt nothing. I could tell it was beautiful but there was no awe and I remember thinking how I miss finding God in the world around me.
Thankfully I have come out of that season the beauty of lightning bugs at twilight, or sitting and watching a rabbit playing in the yard take my breath away.
It is easy for our difficult seasons to hide the beauty of God around us but boy oh boy, when He opens our eyes, what an amazing moment that is!
Being single is no fun, but lately, if I’m honest, I’ve begun embracing it more. Like Paul says, I can focus on ministry without worrying about neglecting family. If He provides a relationship, great! If he doesn’t, then I get to do what my heart longs for. That’s a huge win in my book!
Hahha must have been some tree!! Hahaha but seriously though thatβs awesome. Thanks for sharing your heart. It really means a lot. Thatβs a great perspective to have!! Sending big hugs xox
Well, I guess you could say it was a tree of…ehem…life lol!
hahahhahha oh my goodness yes!!
So glad you’re with family for the holidays. You needed that positive reinforcement and I feel good seeing you look so happy. Happy July 4! π
Thanks Ian! Yeah so much joy up here!! Thanks for saying that! big hugs xo
God’s ‘goodnight kisses’ and reminders of love through family are precious. Praying a blessing on you as you continue to soak in that love.
They really are so precious. Thank you π And I really appreciate your prayers – means a lot π big hugs xox
Have fun! I’m not doing anything really tonight. I just wrote about that. https://highwaypi.wordpress.com/2019/07/04/exit-247-because-i-have-freedom/
aw thank you π Can’t wait to read it! hugs xox
“Kindness returned is a kindness gained”, just came up with again π. You will always be loved by everyone for who You are as long as You are who You want to be rather than who You are meant to be πBest wishes βοΈ
I love that quote so much! You’re chuck full of wisdom! hugs x
Haha, just sharing the knowledge and wisdom gained from the world! You are welcome πBest wishes βοΈ
ππΌπππΌ
When it is Jesus there’s simply nothing he cant heal, no depression he can rub off! He warms our hearts and where there is emptiness He puts fullness! Happy for you! Keep going and keep doing Jesus.
Can’t *
gotcha!
You’re so right about that – there’s not He can’t heal! Such a powerful truth to rememeber! Big hugs to you xox
Happy July 4 from Canada!
Hey Thanks Shani! Hope you had a great Canada day on Monday! hugs xox
Thank you π
xoxox
Beautiful photos! Of wonderful moments!! We had fun in between raindrops yesterday!! Went blueberry pickin. & made cobbler! Had a cookout & relaxed!! Fun! πΊπΈπβ€οΈLisa!!
Thank you so much!! it really was such a special day! we were dodging raindrops as well! how fun! sounds positively delicious! hugs ox
I’m so happy that you are feeling better. It is tangible in your writing. Whenever you are around your family, your writing is more peaceful. Whatever the past contains is in the past. You bloom brighter in the presence of family. Cute babies! Many years to them, you, and your family.
Thank you so much Melissa, yeah it was really wonderful to be all together π Thank you for that — they are truly such precious little ones! big hugs to you xox
Beautiful sunsets! Beautiful message and reminder of Gods love for us – love the comparison of looking into the eyes of a baby with love & joy – the same way God looks at us. Enjoy your special time with your family. We had a quiet 4th, but next week will be at the beach for a family reunion β€οΈ
Thank you Lisa! The sunsets are truly spectacular up here π And oh my gosh that sounds so fun!! I hope you and your family have a beautiful time at the beach! big hugs xo
I so loved your story! What an awesome inspiration of God’s love! I pray you continue to see God love you in your daily living. Thank you for sharing!
Oh thank you so much! I really appreciate your prayers! Yes! God is all around us π big hugs xo
βAnd in particular, the sunsets. Each one more spectacular than the next. And each one, a love letter, to us.β Beautifully touching! Thank you.
Thank you Crystal! Yes! they are beautiful love letters π big hugs xox
Your neices and nephew are adorable!
Thanks!! They really are the cutest!! Hugs and love xox
Thank you!! i think so too π hehe hugs xo
What a beautiful connection made between baptism and creation. In baptism God finds us and imparts life through the Word and water, not because we deserve it – because He is good. In creation the majesty of His being surrounds us, not because we deserve it – because He is good. Awesome post.
God sits enthroned over all the universe. He will take care of you and lead you. Rest in His goodness. God bless!
You’re so right about that! Baptism is such a beautiful gift He gave us!! Big hugs to you xox
My July 4th was quiet, save for the explosive celebrations in the neighborhood. I heard some of the planes they used in the official fly over in DC go on their roundabout back to base after their moment in the spotlight–wish I’d had the good sense to look out. I hear they had a B2 bomber in their midst, would have been quite the sight.
As for your post, it reminded me of this quote: “In the land of the Blind, the one-eyed man is King”. So many people are blind to the love of God, even opening just one eye–seeing just a little bit of it–can lead us to bigger and better things. Maybe even enable us to help our blind brothers and sisters open their eyes. A timely reminder, thank you.
Hi Scoot – sounds like you had a great day! and wow I’ve never heard that quote before but gosh it’s powerful. thanks for sharing it with me. big hugs to you xox
Great post on how our relationships are very important to our daily lives.
Thank you so much Patricia! You’re so right – they are so incredibly important. Glad you stopped by! big hugs xox
Ah Caralyn. Nothing like a time with family, and away at the lake, even better, and celebrating with children and babies. During days like that, the outside world can be shut out, and you can also get time with the foursome of you, Jesus Christ, Heavenly Father, and Holy Spirit.
While writing of your time like that, it reminds me of the time, many times actually, when our Lord Jesus would go up on the mountain alone, to pray to His Father. After Jesus had His mountain experiences with His Father, He was always right back ministering again, as many were waiting.
Another similarity Caralyn, when you return from your βlakesideβ experience, we are all looking for you, and waiting to be blessed. You have vast insight, for a young lady, and the Godly Wisdom you receive during your lakeside experience as you are open to Holy Spirit teaching, we all appreciate reading.
And also, Jesus was also interested in children, calling them to Himself, encouraging and I would imagine asking Father to bless each one.
Enjoy this time with family, and with the Triune God.
Godβs Richest Blessings my Friend.
Luv, ππΉβ€οΈπ
If this was posted on another days post, I am sorry, Caralyn. I believe I may have hit the wrong date once.
Not to worry!! π I gotcha!! Thanks again my dear friend!
ππΉβ€οΈπ
HelloπI’m sorry for being annoying and I feel embarrassed because I promote myself but I have posted my first blog ever and I know nobody is going to be interested in it anyway but I stilll want you to check it and follow me if you want to read the next oneππ» I swear I have experienced so much and I really want to share it with group of people who actually caresπ
Good luck with your blog!
Thank you so much
ππΌ
I started a journal in 2016, “A Celebration of Small Things,” to record the expressions of God’s love I saw around me. Examples include: a house wren perched outside the window while I exercised (She was cheering me on!), hot soup on a chilly evening, and our toddler granddaugther saying “I love you” for the first time. God’s love for us IS expressed in a myriad of ways, every day! We just need to learn how to pay attention.
Oh wow thatβs such an awesome idea! I may have to start doing that! Thanks Nancy! Amen! We need to pay attention! Hugs and love xox
I enjoyed reading this post. I am so glad that you enjoyed time with your family.
Thanks Amanda, yeah I am so grateful for this time together! big hugs xo
I love reading your posts. This was a great one! You inspire me
Hi Chelsea! Oh gosh youβre so sweet. Thank you so much! Hugs and love xox
I like reading post like this. It is very uplifting! We are precious in god’s eyes and He’ll never leave us alone, Keep being hopeful and cheerful, Dear! π
Thanks Dada!! I really appreciate youβre encouragement. So true! Precious in Hjs eyes!! Hugs and love xox
Beautiful! You are an inspiration!!
Aw thanks so much Jennifer! Hugs and love xox
I am book marketing your amazon link. I am looking at getting your little ebook also. Iβm filled with admiration for all you are doing. Thanks
thank you π
Great pics. Have a blessed day!
Thank you so much π you too! Hugs and love xox
It’s so nice to see that all went so well for you and all your family
thank you so much Larry! It really was such a beautiful time. thanks for stopping by! big hugs xox
I’m so happy that you had an enjoyable time with family! Beautiful post!<3
Thanks so much Sophie!! Hugs and love xox
So glad you had an awesome time! We stayed home and hunted with neighbors and had a few laughs. GOD is awesome.
Thanks so much! Oh that sounds like a fun weekend too! Yes He is!! Hugs and love xox
beautiful!
Thanks so much! Hugs and love xox
So glad you had so much family time, and such majestic God time. Love that image of God looking at you, Caralyn! <3 And that incredible Good night kiss every night in the sky! <3 Love those kisses with the little one too! How cute!
Thanks again Gail! Yeah the family time was so SO appreciated π me too!! Hugs and love xox
π <3
π₯°π₯°π₯°
Amen && Amen!! <3 π Yesss! That's why I love nature so much for I see His love, power & glory in it .I feel His presence all around me as I speak with Him. Looking in the eyes of babies, children I see God's love and as you said how He looks at us. With unconditional love. <3 As my sister said when she gave her testimony on having her first baby boy "I never knew I would have loved him so much. I looked at him and see how much God really loves me." And it so relates with this message! Your family is lovely and the Love of Christ is shining on you all. Blessings!
Hi Tammy!! Yes!! I so agree — nature is the pure visibility of God’s creativity and majesty. I feel so close to Him when I am in untouched nature π Oh I love this response so much – gives me so much comfort. and amen – very grateful for my family indeed! big hugs xox
Well, I’m Canadian. On your Independence Day, I prayed a rosary. Belated Happy Fourth, my neighbours to the south. <3
Thank you Karina for your prayers! Our country definitely needs it!! Happy belated Canada day to you! Hugs and love xox
Really beautiful words! Thank you for sharing your heart.
thank you so much!! hugs xox
Caralyn, you and your blogging crossed my mind a few times today starting in the wee hours when I conceptualized my feelings contained in my latest blog; and how I hadn’t received email notifications of any of your latest blogs; I actually wondered why and how this could be, and of course the first silly thing that came to my mind because I tend to worry was maybe I said something off the cuff which, ha ha, I do a fair amount off with anyone from time to time. So, low and behold immediately after I got finished tending to watering plants and trees around here with my dog who was relaxing the whole time, and got back inside to check the scene out online, and suddenly there was your like for my blog today which is very uncanny to say the least, but we know how God works in mysterious way; which by the way I appreciate and want to send out a big special thank you! But then I entered your name into the browser and several of the recent visits to your home page came up but this one stood out to me I believe because there was connection in what you said here in this very good blog about Faith which is deeply significant to what I wrote today; both your writing here and mine today revolve or pivot on that central factor; and how when you wrote this during your trip home with family for the 4th of July reminded me of some past times I had with family like that when many of those family were still on earth; and how much times have changed for me, but the mission has not, it only intensified. Fortunately I’ve had tons of past good to draw on as I strive by faith to find my way, more certain and committed than ever, in spite of the pain or suffering! Now I like my Dad, who showed me by his example say, God is allowing it for His purpose and will, and I say to myself and now you I’m fine! I hope you are too, and that you and your family get together each and every opportunity that you have to do so!
God Bless You and Yours.
Lawrence
Yes! God works in mysterious ways! Thanks so much Lawrence. You’re right – theres always so much we can learn from the past. big hugs to you xo
Great you’re so right and it’s good to hear from you; I’m sure you’re doing some very wonderful things and I’ll try to catch up soon on the blog. Big Hugs to You too! XO
Awesome x
I was out of the loop for sure; didn’t even know your Birthday had just passed! I do wish you a belated Happy Birthday and my Mom always told us itβs our month so I hope the special one you had with your βMomβ this year carries a joy at least through the month and even always as the Best!
I also love the Fog Horn idea about God! That to me tied in so well with my mentioning in my latest writing how Scriptures tell us how when we see it’s through a veil; and actual Fog is like that! Very cool how you brought it up! Thank You!
Thank you again!
You’re very welcome Caralyn; many blessings and have a very nice day! π
You too!
I was tired last night and left this message with a few typos so here it is again without them; I have to improve my proofreading!
Hi Caralyn, you and your blogging crossed my mind a few times today starting in the wee hours when I conceptualized my feelings contained in my latest blog; and how I hadn’t received email notifications of any of your latest blogs; I actually wondered why and how this could be, and of course the first silly thing that came to my mind because I tend to worry was maybe I said something off the cuff which, ha ha, I do a fair amount of with anyone from time to time. So, low and behold immediately after I got finished tending to watering plants and trees around here with my dog who was relaxing the whole time, and got back inside to check the scene out online, and suddenly there was your “like for my blog” today which is very uncanny to say the least, but we know how God works in mysterious ways; which by the way I appreciate and want to send out a big special thank you! But then, I entered your name into the browser and several of the recent visits to your home page came up but this one stood out to me I believe because there was connection in what you said here in this very good blog about “Faith” which is deeply significant to what I wrote today; both your writing here and mine today revolve or pivot on that central factor; and how when you wrote this during your trip home with family for the 4th of July reminded me of some past times I had with family like that when many of those family were still on earth; and how much times have changed for me, but the mission has not, it only intensified. Fortunately I’ve had tons of past good to draw on as I strive by faith to find my way, more certain and committed than ever, in spite of the pain or suffering! Now I like my Father both earthly and heavenly, who showed me by his example say, God is allowing it for His purpose and will, and I say to myself and now you; I’m fine! I hope you are too, and that you and your family get together each and every opportunity that you have to do so!
God Bless You and Yours.
Brother in Christ,
Lawrence
haha no worries, thanks
haha back at ya! you’re so easy going, I used to be once; but I’ll have to try and get back to doing it too! Thank You Again!
π
π
Hey girl Hey!!! You are awesome and I love the way you have allowed God to open your eyes on a spiritual level to where you see things the way He does……beyond your natural born eyes but through your inner spiritual eyes. Most people are unaware that there are 2 sets…keep up the good work….be blessed and thanks for visiting my blog..
Jae
Hey Jae! Oh my gosh you’re so kind to say that π Thank you so much! So glad you stopped by! big hugs xox