Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.

Isaiah 43:19

Mo is a hero who no longer wears a uniform. At 51, he is a former New York City police officer. Mo retired on disability due to breathing issues suffered during work at the 9/11 site. But he’s a hero, because of his service in Manhattan … and swim paddles. Although Mo admits he’s “relatively new to swimming,” a willingness to try something new reflects the words of Isaiah who said, “I am doing a new thing.” On this morning, Mo’s “new thing” was swim paddles — aqua-colored things that strap onto his hands.

After experiences as a police officer during and following 9/11, Mo could be one of those irritable, older people who resemble me when I’m tired. Yet, Mo actively seeks what “new thing” God is doing today. That’s my kind of hero.

Mary Manz Simon
Fort Myers, FL

Thank You, Lord, for people who remind me to look for the newness built into Your loving actions each day. Amen.

Reflect: Thank the person who reminds you to look for “new things” in everyday life.

Read: 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Revelation 21:5