Clay in the Hands

Last Sunday I began a new sermon series built around the basic principles of our faith. Our church exists to make disciples. We find our identity in sharing Christ and growing in faith together. But how can we do that effectively if we are not clear on what we believe. As Baptists, we are a non-creedal people – meaning, one need not sign a creed to be part of the family.

However, we do come together around common-held, foundational doctrines that give us a basis of relating to one another. And so, we are now in the midst of exploring some of those foundational doctrines as a church family.

This Sunday, we will look at what we believe about God the Father. While the Holy Trinity is a mystery to us and there is no way we could ever define God, the Bible does describe God in terms that help us know Him. We see God’s attributes throughout scripture – His holiness, power and truth. We see His love, compassion and provision. We experience these things not only in His word, but in the way He interacts with us each day – if we are paying attention.

Paul tells us in Romans 1:20, “For since the creation of the world, God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.” What we understand from this truth is that we see God in His creation.

I am one who loves nature – being out in it. The mountains or the beach, a river or a deer blind – it does not matter – as long as I am present in the moment, I feel a closeness to God through His creation. Two of the most special experiences to me are sunrises and sunsets. Not everyone may feel the same, but I have always had a connection to the Father more powerfully in those moments than in most other experiences. Seeing the sun peak over the horizon draws me to the point of hope for a new day and God’s involvement in it. As the sun sneaks out of sight, I am drawn to the idea of resting in the Father’s lap.

I encourage you to slow down today and look for the Father around you. His presence is ever a reality. The issue is not the absence of God in our lives but rather our awareness. Take time to look. Take time to be present. Take time to watch the sunset.

Be blessed!