Of Stars and Men

Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is missing. Isaiah 40:26 (NIV)

I love to grab a thick blanket, spread it on the ground and star gaze. Even though we live in town, our backyard is unaffected by light pollution and is a fantastic spot to lay back and stare up at the heavens. I also remember searching out an unobstructed view of a lunar eclipse several years ago after a snowstorm, just to see a rare burgundy moon. I also like Scripture that shows God speaking directly about taking care of the universe. If He can manage the stars, how much more capable of taking care of us is He? Not one star goes missing. How could He possible let one of His children go astray? He knows us as intimately as the constellations. We do not often think of a star getting lost. We have science to take care of the why and how of that. But to think that all is held in place not because of the scientific explanations, but because God is in control of those such things, simply overwhelms me. How could I not worship the One who can name all the stars? How could I not trust the One that set gravity in motion? How could I not bow down before the One who knows what happens when matter gets sucked into a black hole? How can I not lean on the Rock who created rocks? If our insignificant planet is significant enough for the One who chases stars, what is holding me back? Am I relying on God like I should be?

The next time you are out on a clear night, look up. Visualize a star gone astray. Next, imagine the Creator tracking it down and setting it back on its course. Now picture that star as you.

God, set me back on the right course and watch over me just as You do the stars. Amen.

Nikki Hamsher