I recenlty made my first trip to Death Valley. I didn’t know what to expect. Although we missed the vibrant floral display that accompanies many spring seasons in this area, color abounded in the surrounding hills. I am always happy to see God’s colorful creations. This scene was taken along Artist’s Drive in Death Valley National Park around sunset. 

On the surface, this old, rusty car didn’t look like much. But I love this vibrant, fanciful rendition of a scene that might otherwise seem humdrum. Junk to one may be treasure to another. I am thankful we have the freedom to choose our own priorities and seek after those things that are treasures to us. 

You have to admire those who can put aside their fears and live out the dreams of their hearts. Such was the case with Marta Becket. She rented this recreation hall near Death Valley in 1967. She began repairs, created the sets, painted murals on the adobe walls and renamed it the Amargosa Opera House. In 1970, journalists from National Geographic discovered Becket doing a performance at the Amargosa Opera House without an audience. Their profile and another in Life led to an international interest in Becket and her theater. She began performing to visitors from around the world, including such notables as Ray Bradbury and Red Skelton.

“God didn’t promise days without pain, laughter without sorrow, nor sun without rain, but He did promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.”

I give thanks for the brightness, comfort, and hope God has brought to my life to counterbalance the mortal trials we are given. 

Bright colors are an energizing part of our daily experience. They make us bright. They make us happy. One would not expect vibrant color in the middle of the wasteland we call desert. But along the desert backroads of Southern California, this little gem was almost missed. But an alert observer helped us turn back the car to this colorful array.