The candle in the lantern throws out a warm glow. The Southern Cross rises glittering into the sky as it has done for millennia. Lightning from an unseen source dances over the silhouette of fence and trees.

By the candlelight I write the gifts I was given today: family that drops everything to help in times of need, swimming and pizza shared with dear friends, a smoothie made as a treat to end an unexpected day, the flickering, swaying calm of the light I write by.

By candlelight I read comforting, life-sustaining words reminding me that I am chosen and I am loved by Jesus, my Creator and Redeemer.

By candlelight I let ink prayers flow out to that same Creator and Redeemer. Prayers that praise and plead with so much more confidence in His love for me than they did twelve months ago.

This is Sabbath.
Rest. Remembrance. Reflection.
And it is a gift I have all too often squandered. But tonight I have savoured and soaked in it. Tonight in a small backyard in a chaotic world heaven is near and its peace abounds.