Chin Up!

I’ve been working on this thought for a while, now. This is not to say that I’ve perfected the idea, by any means. Simply put, I think we all should practice looking up more often. If we do, we could overlook many of life’s woes; however, if we don’t, then we could miss out on many of God’s blessings.

I went on a staff retreat last weekend, during which we all had the opportunity to relax, eat, bond, and hear God’s word preached. On my way to my house Friday and Saturday night, I was captivated by the nighttime sky. I’ve always had a fetish with the stars, but they never cease to carry a sense of supernatural mysticism. I slowed to a halt to stare in awe at the contrast of the twinkling diamonds against the dark expanse—and how limitless it was! The sky is a constant metaphor of our God: limitless and largely unexplored, mysterious and transcendent, and yet relevant and near.

That same Saturday morning, I stepped outside after breakfast to be greeted by a handful of noisy birds in the nearby palm trees. It took me a few minutes to acknowledge them, but I was so glad I did! They were a brilliant yellow, the size of a large raven, and performing a magnificent acrobatic act from branch to fruit. Again, I paused to behold their beauty. When was the last time I’ve stopped to behold my Lord’s beauty? Unfortunately, I am looking down all too often and miss the view.

Not surprising, these thoughts tie into what God has been teaching me all along: look at Me, your Lord! When I am stuck on my own inadequacies, worries, and plans, I miss out on the truths of His faithfulness, sovereignty, and indwelling power. I’m pretty sure we neglect these comforts as often as we ignore the beauties of the evening and morning. Just as pausing for a gaze at the sky and birds was relaxing, peeling my eyes off of myself and surrounding cares to fix them on the Lord is restful. Once I do this, then I can go on with newfound confidence and strength. I believe this is what the writer of Hebrews was referring to in Heb 12:1-3.

That said, a quick up-date on the teaching: God has shown Himself faithful to teach me and help me teach. He has also provided opportunities for me to constantly consult my fellow teachers for guidance, ideas, and affirmations. I needed them to speak some truth to me this week to help me heal from a self-bashing defeat. Even still, I am still enjoying where God has me! I am starting to build relationships with some of my girls outside of class time--pray that God uses that time to fill me with wisdom and love to impart to those delicate ones. Praise God!