In All Such Things

Why is it that the setting sun draws our attention? (and don't say it is because it blinds us as we drive, even though that can be true)
Why does it capture our hearts so?
Is it because we can stand in awe of it? Because it is much bigger than us?
Is it because it draws us out of ourselves and focuses our attention on that which is created by our good God?

Does a sunset make us feel closer to God? Or are we truly seeing a piece of God's handiwork that could only be attributed to Him? While the presence of darkness hovers nearby, we can choose where we fix our gaze. The darkness will not overcome the light.

I think we can easily stand in awe of God as we watch a sunset, or as we stand in the presence of a grand waterfall, or as we stand on a mountaintop overlooking a great expanse. Those are the big things that demand our attention because they make us feel so small, in the kind of good way where we remember God created it all and is bigger than all of it.

But do we stand in awe of God when we see a young child open a door for a stranger at the local shop? Or when we are the recipient of a kind gesture that came out of the blue? Or when we shuffle by one small flower growing amidst rubble? Or when a gentle hand touches us in comfort? Or when a group of co-workings spend a morning painting the second floor of a building so that lives can be changed with new opportunity? Or when a close friend listens to us in our struggle or pain?

I want to notice the things, big and small, that draw my attention toward eternity. Toward God's goodness and His rich blessings. I want to look at the world and see the foretastes of what is to come. I want to remember that in all things, God is present. All good things big and small. God is in all such things. The sun, the stars, the leaves, a smile, a comforting hug, and I want to always be aware of them. They are gifts.