December/Vision

With grace the bright King of mysteries has revealed to us every wonder, that through them we may understand him - a bright protection - and through the multitude of his miracles.

  - Anonymous, Saltair na Rann (Irish, 9th or 10th century)

Full of splendor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever. He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered; the LORD is gracious and merciful.

  - Psalm 111.3, 4

The works of the Lord in creation and culture are a "second book of revelation" by which those who know Him may grow to know Him better. God is making Himself known through the things He has made. Everywhere His majesty, splendor, wisdom, power, goodness, and faithfulness are on display. And, as the psalmist says, the works of the Lord are "studied by all who delight in them" (v. 2).

There is so much to learn about the steadfast love and faithfulness of God from the humblest of creatures. Materialists insist that the universe holds together by its own inherent laws - this causes that which results in this and affects that over there. Because the rationalist is able to posit a "law" for every action and reaction, he feels no need for God. The cosmos can take care of itself.

But there is nothing "automatic" about the creation. The Scriptures teach that God Who made the cosmos upholds it all by His Word of power. If for only a moment He were to withdraw His hand from any part or portion, it would simply cease to exist. Hidden throughout the vast cosmos are hints and tokens of divine goodness, wisdom, and might, and God calls on us, His royal priesthood, to search them out, delight in them, know Him in them, and search them out all the more (Prov. 25.2).

The unseen God becomes clear and close when we seek Him in the things He has made. Yes, this takes time. It also requires some study, contemplation, conversation with others, and waiting on the Lord in silence. But once have that magnificent glory emerge from some object of the creation on which you've fixed your attention, and you will never fail to see it again. The unseen through the seen breaks into our experience, affirming His presence and love and enlarging our vision of the vast cosmos and the everywhere-present love of God.

Have you discovered the Lord in the things He has made? He's waiting for you there.

Today at The Fellowship of Ailbe

Speaking of naturalist science, it's good for them, every now and then, to have to face up to the religious nature of their enterprise, as I point out in today's ReVision.

Our new online evangelism seminar is taking off. Pastor, how would you like to enlist every member of your church in the work of reaching the lost in your community? This course can show you how - and help you get it done. Write me today. The course is so new we haven't even got it up on the website yet, but I'll be happy to give you a call and chat about it.

Thanks again for your gifts. We're pleased to know that you find this ministry a help to you in some way. Your gifts express your gratitude to God and appreciation for our work, and we rejoice in the Lord's goodness through you. Click the donate button or send your tax-deductible gift to The Fellowship of Ailbe, 100 Lamplighter Ct., Hamilton, VA, 20158.

T. M. Moore, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.