A View from Above:

This past Sunday, I was returning from a trip and flew directly over Atlanta—where I grew up. I was mesmerized as I sat staring out the window because I could easily identify the world I grew up in. I spotted the Georgia Dome, Lenox Mall, Buckhead, and even my old neighborhood.

What amazed me was the perspective 25,000 feet provided me. I felt distant and cold from the world that I knew so well; the vantage point was radically different. Rather than being on the streets, dodging traffic and living life in the city, I flew far above it. While it remained somewhat recognizable, it lacked any real connection for me.

During the same flight, I read an article by Dr. Stephen Hayner who says, “The picture of God from one end of the Bible to the other is that God is on a mission. God is involved. God is passionate. God reaches out. God never gives up.”

It struck me that we often picture God to be hovering above at 25,000 feet watching our every move, but with a disconnected interest. In reality, however, God is on a passionate mission to be involved in our lives.

Paul says in 2 Corinthians 8:9, “For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.” He is pursuing us so that we may recognize how intimately close He is to us.

Where have we been able to see God actively pursuing us this week?

From what vantage point do you feel God is viewing your life right now—one that is cold and distant or one that is intimately engaged in your daily life?