Exquisite Beauty

“A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” (Matthew 5:14)

This is one of those beloved Bible verses so full of love and beauty that it is special to read. It needs no realistic view in life to burn it indelibly into a lifetime beautiful memory, yet God gave me that beautiful sight.

World War II had raised its evil head on December 7, 1941. I and a shipload of other U.S. soldiers who had been previously trained went aboard ship in February 1942 and sailed from San Francisco toward an unknown destination. After traveling unescorted for nearly two weeks, it was evident that we were about to enter a harbor.

Naturally, all troops were topside to see where we were. What we saw opening before our very eyes was an unbelievably beautiful sight–yet, it was real! Our ship was steaming at half speed into the gorgeous blue water of a horseshoe-shaped harbor. Beautiful white houses lined the shoreline, terraced on hill after terraced hill. The houses were roofed with red tile roofs, which contrasted perfectly with the eye-popping scenery. It seemed that every house had planted a flower garden; colorful flowers were everywhere! Contrasting green trees were all around. Everything added to a glorious picture! My thoughts turned to the Bible verse: “A city set on a hill cannot be hid.” So unbelievably real! So unbelievably God!

We were unprepared for such a dazzling sight and the information came down quickly that the gorgeous location was Wellington, New Zealand. We were informed that our ship would resupply and sail on. We troops were allowed to disembark and walk (welcome exercise) for an hour or so. No cameras were allowed, but exploring the area on foot gave us a better picture of the once-in-a-lifetime sight!

My calculation shows that it has been sixty-seven years since that everlasting, God-painted sight, yet I can even yet see in my mind the indescribably beautiful picture!

Through the years I have learned that what God’s doing is so perfectly done that it is to be revered with great joy and no reservations!

About the Author

Harry Dishon is a retired veteran living in Howard County. He and his wife Joan recently recorded some of Harry’s recollections as a child and as a soldier, and we are honored to be able to share these memories with you. Periodically, we will post selections from Harry’s writings on our Military Appreciation page, so please come back and share some of Harry’s insights and memories.