West Quoddy Head Lighthouse courtesy cyberlights.com.

West Quoddy Head Lighthouse
courtesy cyberlights.com.

Where on earth does the sun rise first?

For the continental United States, that might be the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, Lubec, Maine. Situated on the easternmost point of the country, the lighthouse location is the first place to experience the wonder of the rising sun.

Imagine standing outside the tower as the sky slowly changes from black to lavender-gray, then watch streaks of pink, orange and gold outline the clouds above the horizon while the glowing orb emerges. See the ocean below reflect the mirror image of the changing sky above as colors tinge the water in vibrant hues.

Soon the haze of dawn begins to clear, the horizon divides the heavens from the sea, and objects emerge with clarity. The sky boasts various tones of blue as the sun breaks through the clouds and declares itself ruler of the daylight. Night is put to rest as daytime takes over, announcing another new beginning to the earth.

Malcom Rouse, last Coast Guard keeper at the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse once remarked, “I’m up when that sunshine hits here – it’s the first place it hits – it sure is beautiful.”

So do the people on the west coast of the United States feel disappointed because they’re the last ones to see the sun rise? Of course not. We know the miracle of a sunrise can be witnessed from any place on the earth. Anyone who is awake at that time, whatever it may be wherever they are, has the opportunity to watch the sun come up as the earth makes its rotation. Every person has the chance to witness a new day and have a fresh start.

How encouraging to know that each day is a new beginning. As we marvel at the beauty of the sunrise, let us celebrate another chance to start over.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 NRSV