My husband has very keen eyesight when it comes to distance, especially with wildlife. He can see an eagle flying high above by noticing its white head. He can see deer in the thicket, turkeys in a field, as well as squirrels in trees. He is always telling me, “Look at that deer, or those turkeys.” My common response, “Where?”
After 34 years of marriage, I have come to the conclusion that I must not care about seeing wildlife because I cannot focus in as well as Rob can. Then, one day I received clarity on why I can’t see God’s creation. Rob and I were standing in front of our cabin and Rob saw a goose swimming in the slew down the hill from us. “Carol, isn’t that cool? Look at it.” I squinted. I strained to see, but to no avail. “There’s nothing there,” I thought, “I am either dumber than a doornail for not seeing or he truly makes things up!” I really thought it was the latter.
Something clicked in that moment. I realized that Rob has better than 20/20 vision when it comes to distance. I mean, very clear vision, and I do not, even with my contacts on. This was transforming to say the least! I explained to him what I saw squinting, a small, white blur moving about. I would have never seen the bird in a million years. I asked Rob what he saw. He could describe the bird in detail.
After explaining this revelation to Rob, it has helped to understand each other. I trust him when he tells me what he sees, and he knows that I really can’t see things beyond a certain point. This makes for a more peaceful relationship with patience and understanding.
As we all get our fill this week of turkey, football (Go Lions!), family, and friends, let’s stop and see clearly what is right around us. It’s not the season or people. It is God, the Living God.
Can you see it? Can you see how God is moving around you? He never stops. He is constantly making His presence known to you every hour of every day. Why is He like this? It’s because He wants you to return home. Sin separates you from Him, and this is not acceptable. He loves you too much. So, He did what only a loving Father could do. He sent His Son to die and resurrect from the dead to give you everlasting life!
First, can you see it, can you see God? Second, do you desire to respond to it?
May this Thanksgiving week be a week of sheer gratitude over God’s love for you. Then, let it spill over to those around you. May God’s blessings be the centerpiece at your table as you share God’s goodness with those you love.
When you and I respond to the most audacious gift that God could give mankind, Jesus enters into our relationships where peace, understanding, and clear vision occurs. Marriages benefit, families are healed, and neighborly love takes on a whole new look. When asked, “Can you see it”? You can reply with confidence, “I most certainly do!”
Happy Thanksgiving! United In Love is taking the rest of the week off and enjoying family.
Carol J German 