Rock Of Ages

Twenty-degree temperatures at daybreak assail senses and give rise to contemplation of human weaknesses.

At Ebenezer Point on Jordan Lake, the steadfast aura of a sandstone rib rising mystically from the rock-strewn, wave and wind-battered shore adds perspective about timeless beauty and perseverance. I pause and give mind's core free rein. 

Lost in thought I come to appreciate that yesterday may have been a challenge, but tomorrow brims with opportunities. I take a deep breath and embrace today's lakeshore meander as a gift from God—my rock of ages.

© Ilija Lukić 2025

Rock Of Ages

Ebenezer Point on Jordan Lake NC

The Cold Moon

Winter grips Earth realms

On moonlit night feast eyes on high

Cold Moon warms malaise

© Ilija Lukić 2025

(Among Native American cultures, Cree tribes call the first full Moon of the year the Cold Moon) 

The Cold Moon 

Cooper’s Cove on Jordan Lake NC 

Lakeside Cathedral

A mid-afternoon, early-January meander in 38ºF air along Jordan Lake encourages an intentionally brisk pace. Physical comfort in the raw weather instead of making time for mindful spiritual seasoning is a priority, until a shoreline glade of towering loblolly pines quietly grabs my attention.

Darkening overcast skies, dramatic vertical angles of tree trunks, subdued light filtering through evergreen canopies, a soft carpet of pine straw and the palpable silence within said colonnade cause mind’s eye and heart to take flight into a 10th and 11th-century European Romanesque cathedral. 

An awareness of safety and peace takes hold of my inner being. My soul soars longingly into the stillness, brimming with a renewed God-given sense of the Eternal.

© Ilija Lukić 2025

Lakeside Cathedral

Seaforth Beach at Cooper's Cove on Jordan Lake

Genesis For Truth

Truth flows when dayspring from on high unfolds
And ushers Light into our world’s dark sooth,
Till grace-filled hearts break vile strangleholds—
Dawn’s beauty is the genesis for truth.

© Ilija Lukić 2025

Genesis For Truth

Seaforth Beach on Jordan Lake NC