Even after a light dose of winter, we have been looking forward to spring. A few weeks ago, we turned our clocks
forward 60 minutes to extend our daylight hours. Our days are noticeably lighter, longer, and that feels better. Then, we
lost the sun.
Well, it didn’t go anywhere, the moon passed between the earth and sun yesterday and for a few brief minutes, it
obscured our view of the sun. There was quite a build up to this, wasn’t there? The eclipse came with warnings (“don’t
look!”, “close the schools!”), excitement (“wear these glasses and look!”, “attend our eclipse party”), and explanations
(what happened, why, and when will it happen again). The point is, for a few moments, something came between us
and the sun and we could not see its light or feel its warmth.
What is strange about this event is that there was so much excitement over what kept us from what we desperately
need, that the eclipse became our focus rather than the sun itself.
The Bible tells us, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the works of His hands” (Psalm 19:1).
Think about the ways God’s glory is on display in the sky above. Consider the patterns of the sun that we see, rely on,
and set our clocks and calendars by. Wonder at the beauty of the sun as it rises or sets or as it rules the afternoon sky.
Stand in awe of its size and the scope of its power and influence. Are you astounded by the obvious power of the One
who put it in place and controls its path?
The Bible also tells us, “Since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – His eternal power and divine nature –
have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse” (Romans 1:20).
Here it is again – the inescapable glory of God on full display for us to see so that our eyes and hearts are drawn to Him.
There is no avoiding this. In creation, and in this case the sky, we see His power and glory before us everyday.
An eclipse reminds us of what we have everyday, what we really need, and who has provided this for us. It started
conversations about what things would be like for us if the sun was permanently hidden from us – how long would we
last?
Looking back on this event, some questions come to mind. Am I focused on this rare exception or on the beauty,
power, size, patterns, and warmth of the sun day to day as it points me to God’s glory? Maybe missing the sun for a few
minutes will make us slow down and take note of it more often. Maybe our eyes, hearts, and minds will be drawn
heavenward a little more in appreciation for God’s provision and in wonder at His greatness.
Another question also comes to my mind. Is there something in my life that obscures my view of God and His power
and glory? Something I allow to get in the way of my view of Him and instead becomes my focus? Something that I am
more excited about than God and His glory? Is it possible that whatever has come into my life and seems to dim my view
of God was never intended to become the focus, but instead is meant to remind me of how desperately I need Him and
all that only He can provide for me?
We should look to the eclipse and learn what we can from it. We need a reminder of how much we depend on the
sun. Let’s also ask what obscures our view of God and His Son, and are we focused on that or on noticing our need of
Him?
Take time this week to be still and quiet, to look up to the sky and remember that “The heavens declare the glory of
God; the skies proclaim the works of His hands”. Then, bow in humble wonder and worship as our hearts are drawn to
the One we need most.