We visited the island of Madeira in April 2017, some 8 months after a wildfire engulfed the island for weeks on end. Four people were killed in the blaze, and the aftermath was catastrophic, with many homes and acres of land destroyed. One person was jailed for arson, but dry, hot weather conditions and human negligence also played significant roles in sparking the inferno. In April 2017 the ravages of the fire were clear. From the Funchal cable car we could see nothing but blackened mountainside, charred tree stumps, scorched earth and destroyed buildings. The beautiful Botanical Gardens were 60% destroyed and at that time work was just beginning to renovate the gardens with restored lakes and new plantings of Portuguese camellias.
Last month we took the opportunity to go back to Madeira and were amazed at how green the mountainsides are. Although it has taken years for the island to recover, the people of Madeira have shown solidarity and resilience, rebuilding their lives and restoring the natural habitats and ecosystems. A return visit to the Botanical Gardens showed us that natural beauty has been restored, with just a few scars from the fire visible only to those of us who remembered the 2016 devastation.
In Genesis 1:31 we read: “God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.”
A song came to mind, and remained with me as we travelled about the island: Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World.
Heavenly Father, we lift our hearts in gratitude as we reflect on the timeless lyrics of Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World.”
In this beautiful world You’ve crafted, we see:
• The azure skies, stretching infinitely above us, whispering of Your majesty.
• The rainbow’s vibrant hues, a promise of hope and renewal after every storm.
• The warmth of human kindness, shared smiles, and outstretched hands.
• The joyful cries of babies, new life echoing Your creative wonder.
Yet, Lord, we also acknowledge the shadows—the pain, injustice, and brokenness. In this tension, we find solace:
• You invite us to be stewards of this world, tending to its fragile beauty.
• You teach us patience, like seeds waiting for rain, trusting Your timing.
• You remind us that simplicity holds profound truths—love, grace, and gratitude.
Bless our eyes, O God, to see the extraordinary in the ordinary:
• The rustling leaves, the laughter of friends, the morning dew on petals.
• The shared meals, the whispered prayers, the quiet acts of compassion.
As we journey through life, may we carry the melody of this song:
• A song of wonder, sung in every sunrise and starry night.
• A song of unity, bridging hearts across oceans and cultures.
• A song of eternal hope, pointing us to the ultimate Home beyond this world.
Thank You, gracious Creator, for this wonderful world — a canvas where Your love is painted in every shade. May we cherish it, protect it, and live in awe of Your goodness.
In the name of Jesus, who makes all things new, we pray. Amen
Debbie Wilson
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