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Sunday, October 21, 2007

"the dark threads were as needful"

I got a poem the other day from another seminary teacher I work with. I'm not sure of its title or of its author, but here's the poem:

My life is but a weaving
Between my God and me.
I let him choose the colors
He worketh steadily.

Ofttimes He worketh sorrow
And I, within my heart,
Forget He sees the pattern
While I see only part.

The dark threads were as needful
In the Weaver's skillful hand,
As the threads of gold and silver
In the pattern He had planned.

Not till the loom is silent
And the shuttles cease to fly
Shall God unroll the canvas
And explain the reasons why.




There was an oil painting I did a couple of years ago, where I intentionally worked with only a couple of different colors, to be able to focus on the contrast of light and dark values. In a very compelling way, the darks made the lights stand out and vice versa.

Every time I look at the painting, I am reminded that in life, as in art, there is beauty found in contrast and opposition. Dark times make the good times more beautiful. There is purpose in pain. It plays an important role. When coupled with moments of joy and peace, it makes the masterpiece of our lives rich and deep and more beautiful than it would be if we only experienced one or the other. How could I fully appreciate the joys of life if I felt no pain along the way? Pain deepens our joys, and perhaps joy also deepens our pains.

So, today I'm grateful for the role of trials and challenges, and the way they add to the beauty of life.

7 comments:

Amy said...

I'm not sure how I came across your blog, but I read it all the time.
I just want to let you know that your family is in my thoughts and prayers all the time.
I can't wait for everything to come together for you guys...you'll be wonderful parents!

mindyluwho said...

What a beautiful poem, and I love your thoughts and insights. A beautiful tapestry takes time and some parts are more intricate than others. It's learning how to be patient through some of the trials that I struggle with. But fortunately we have a loving Master who gives us a glimpse of the project now and again.

I can't wait to rejoice with you when everything works out for you!

Calamity Jane said...

Megan I really love your insight. I go away from your blog wanting to be a better person. Love you lots! Marc scored!

Heffalump said...

You are a wise woman...

Marc and Megan said...

Amy, thank you for leaving a comment, and especially for your thoughts and prayers for us. We appreciate that so much! :)

Mindy, I totally agree! I'm so glad we're not left to figure it out on our own - that's so comforting.

Calamity, well I happen to think that I scored... not only did I get an amazing husband, but I have the best sisters-in-law in the world! And, that's a true story! :)

Heffalump, you're too kind! :)

Carlotta said...

i love that poem! it is SO hard to know that only time will heal and that time will tell but knowing that doesn't always help. it is so frustrating. i find myself wishing time away cause i don't want to deal with whatever i am in the middle of but once it is over and i am looking back i find myself saying how glad i am that it worked out the way it did. i am telling myself that right now. =)

Marc and Megan said...

Carly, I know exactly what you mean... in the end hard times turn out to be good for us, but it's hard to see that when you're in the midst of the hard. I hope you're blessed with the healing that you're seeking.