Everyday I take my “lunch break” and I catch up on the daily news. (I’m a recovering news junkie) With a mouth full of PB&J on wheat bread, a particular story caught my attention. Maybe it was because this story was not about the latest terror or protests or political scandal. Maybe it was because I was just in a quiet, introspective mood…a mood to really think deep about things during my break from writing that day.
The Comet has a name: Siding Spring. I honestly don’t know the significance of that name but I like it. Siding Spring made it’s debut on our news cycle this week because after a million years, it was bound for a close encounter with Mars. Did you catch that? For a MILLION years this huge mass of space matter has made it’s way through space. And, thanks to modern technology, we have the opportunity spectate the event.
The thought of this ancient comet swirls around my mind and makes it’s way to my heart as I make sense of it in my simple minded way…
What is the purpose of this massive universe that we live in yet don’t fully experience or see for ourselves?
Why would God create such a universe that expands beyond the knowledge of even the most intelligent of our society?
What do we, as every day people not employed at NASA, do with the knowledge of the great expanses of our universe created by God Almighty?
What? Why? What
Because HE CAN.
Because HE is God. And we are small. Thank goodness He is God and gives us a glimpse into His big-ness, His grandeur. I feel small. And I should, don’t you think? For in my small-ness there is no room for the pride which erupts in my know-it-all heart and mind. There is no room for us to elevate ourselves and our grand plans because it is simply an impossibility. God is BIG and we are small.
That is it. Period.
But, oh in His big-ness and graciousness our Lord is not pre-occupied in the vast universe. No. He reaches down His strong yet comforting arm and loves us…His prized creation.
And He Shows Off.
My God shows off.
Your God shows off.
You see, the comet making it’s million year old appearance makes me smile. If God shows His might and power and great-ness through a comet, I am confident He will show off in my life and in yours.
But do we have eyes to see and hearts to recognize His glory when it is right in front of us?
Today I’m looking for God to show off in even the mundane in my life. I’m looking for His favor as He pours out joy and peace when I need that grounding as my mind spins in turmoil even when I perform tasks as unloading the dishwasher. I’m looking at God showing off as I hear the sweet breaths of my six year old who finally settles down and rests after a long day of play and school. I’m looking for God to show off when I come to Him with my need for approval and acceptance. He whispers through His Word and into my heart that I am approved and accepted no matter what.
Let us not forget that our Great God does not need our applause or our adoration when He shows off. No. He doesn’t need it, but wants it. There is something that releases in us when we put aside our own ego and make much of Jesus. We have the privilege of joining in with the heavenlies to praise the One who makes the earth spin, the moon reflect, the sun radiate, the stars burst with beauty.
Yes. My God shows off daily.
Yes. Your God shows off big time.
O Eternal, our Lord, Your majestic name is heard throughout the earth; Your magnificent glory shines far above the skies. {Psalm 8:1 The Voice}
Will you stop today and thank Him for His big-ness and for your own small-ness? He is worthy of our notice and admiration.
How is God showing off in your life today? What challenges do you find in opening your heart and mind to see with faith-filled eyes His goodness? I would love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment!
photo credit: Adam Foster | Codefor via photopin cc
***Don’t forget! The Just RISE UP! online study starts November 3! It’s not too late to sign up and take part. CLICK HERE for info.
