Lake Steinhagen, Texas
– A Morning of Hope.
Love is patient, love is kind… rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. – 1 Corinthians 13
Let me share a journey to Lake Steinhagen—a visit that became far more than just a photographic outing. It was a deeply moving experience, a reminder of life’s challenges and the beauty that can emerge from them. This trip left a lasting impression on my heart and soul.
Arriving at Lake Steinhagen
As a photographer, I’m always chasing the perfect landscape composition—an image that captures not only a scene but the emotions it evokes. Late one January afternoon, I arrived at Lake Steinhagen, or Steinhagen Reservoir, hoping to find such a moment. The air was crisp, and the landscape was quiet. The winter season and cold temperatures had left the area nearly empty, which suited my mood.
I would like to say that I was filled with the excitement of new possibilities, but in truth, I wasn’t. My wife and I had been struggling through some difficult times, and the weight of those challenges lingered with me. I felt withdrawn, unsure of what this trip might bring. Even so, I was determined to focus on the task at hand. I spent the afternoon exploring Martin Dies Jr. State Park, scouting locations that might offer compelling compositions. The shoreline, trails, and wooded areas presented some potential, and I made mental notes of places to revisit later.
That evening, unfortunately, turned out to be a disappointment for photography. The conditions were not in my favor, and I couldn’t capture the beauty I had envisioned. Nonetheless, I held onto the hope that the morning would bring new opportunities.
A Night of Reflection
Back at my campsite, the cold made its presence known. The temperature dropped sharply as the night wore on, and despite being bundled in layers, I felt its bite. Sleep came in fits and starts. Each time I woke, my thoughts returned to my wife and the challenges we were facing. I prayed, seeking clarity and comfort, but the heaviness in my heart lingered. I didn’t know it then, but the answer to my prayers was forming just beyond the darkness.
A Morning of Hope
Before the first light of dawn, I awoke and decided to get out and start looking for photo opportunities. I peered into the darkness, only to be greeted by an extraordinary sight. Massive fog banks had gathered around the lake creating a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere.
As the sun made its grand appearance, casting its gentle rays upon the landscape, Steinhagen Reservoir came alive in a symphony of mesmerizing blues and delicate pinks. The fog danced and swirled, unveiling a scene of unparalleled beauty that took my breath away.
With a renewed sense of purpose, I swiftly moved from one area to another, guided by my earlier scouting. It was as if the entire landscape had come alive, presenting a masterpiece that no camera could fully capture. The changing light and the misty veil created a captivating atmosphere that defied words.
For hours, I was immersed in the magic of the moment. It felt like a divine gift, a reassurance that even in life’s difficulties, beauty and grace could still be found.
A Moment of Reconciliation
By the time the fog began to lift and the sunlight claimed the day, my heart felt lighter. I returned to my campsite, packed up, and headed home. On the drive, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this morning had been a message—not just for my work as a photographer but for my life as a husband. When I got home, my wife and I talked, sharing our thoughts and finding common ground. For me, this will forever be the morning of hope brought to me by Jesus Christ.
Reflections on Steinhagen Reservoir
Lake Steinhagen is more than a beautiful place. It’s a reminder of how the natural world can reflect our inner lives—calm and stormy, clear and uncertain, yet always filled with the potential for renewal. My time there wasn’t just about capturing stunning photographs; it was about rediscovering hope and faith when I needed it most.
If you ever find yourself at Lake Steinhagen, take the time to truly see it. Whether in the stillness of a foggy morning or under the clear light of day, its beauty has the power to touch your heart and remind you of life’s enduring wonders. For me, that January morning will always be a testament to the love, patience, and kindness that can heal and restore us, just as 1 Corinthians reminds us.
Author: Tim Maxwell