Glory in Creation

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” Psalm 19:1

Social media was full of pictures of the Northern Lights this weekend. Due to a rare geomagnetic storm, auroras were splashed across many parts of the US, including MI. Seeing the Northern Lights has always been a bucket list item for me. So, when I was sent a picture late Friday night, I frantically raced outside. In my excitement I looked up, didn’t see green and went inside disappointed. In my haste I didn’t give it enough time. I didn’t realize that a phone could help magnify what the naked eye may not see. I was so eager for the big event that I didn’t pause long enough to see the miracle and beauty.

In Psalm 19 David expresses his own awe at the sky. He says “the heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” David looked to the sky above him, considering all that it held and saw in it the glory of God. He saw the love of the creator on display. The Northern Lights inspire an awe in us, but they are just one example. God is continually revealing his love through his creation.

Sometimes, like in my experience, we are so eager for the grand moments that we miss the beauty and joy of the small things. We are so excited for things like summer weather, vacations, a job promotion and different stages of life, that we miss out on the blessings of our current circumstances.

Whatever the time and situation, God is working in creation and in your life. Sometimes his handiwork is magnificently visible like the Northern Lights. But, other times it requires effort to recognize his fingerprints. Like pausing in the night and using a phone to see, we might need the perspective of a slower pace or a trusted friend to help us see God’s goodness. Whether God’s glory is clearly evident or hidden to you right now, there is always something to learn about his love for us through the world around us.

What part of creation has caused you to pause and ponder? Where in life have you struggled to see God’s work? Where is God asking you to stop and recognize his loving goodness?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We join with all of creation to declare your goodness. How amazing it is that you created this world and the Northern Lights, but you also created us. We thank you for the depth of your greatness. Give us the eyes to recognize your glory in the magnificent and mundane moments. Prompt our hearts to pause and ponder you, even when we are tempted to move forward. It is in your son’s name that we pray. Amen.

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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