Big deal

We can interpret something someone says, words from a song or poem, or even a random person’s smile as a sign from God, yes. And we can also think, “big deal,” when that small thing confronts the massive rejection, betrayal, and violence of childhood abuse. But “big deal” is exactly what it is.

Genesis tells us God created with just a word. God said, “Let there light,” and light came to be. This story is meant to inform us about the power of God. If God’s power brings about Light itself, then what forces, what graces, what wisdoms, what encouragements, what tolerances are being brought about when God accompanies that someone’s word, or that song or poem, or even that smile? There is a potent force there.

Ans whether or not we were aware of God’s presence in it, we experienced the lift, the motivation, the comfort. And it wasn’t a one-and-done. That energy kept moving within us. It is still moving in us, and now we can work with it, thus giving it the wide spectrum of effect it can have. Our acknowledgment of God’s presence within us, loving, comforting, encouraging, informing is the match to the flame. What God can do within us with our cooperation is, to use the words of Genesis, “very, very good.”

Reflection

How might God provide what your parents did not?

Prayer

Dear God, you created with just a word. You do speak to me. Through other people, through nature, through song, color, idea, brainstorm, opportunity, and drive, you speak to me. These are all words. May I give you no obstacle, Lord. No doubt, no suspicion, no dragging of my feet. Show me how to welcome and use your words within me. Amen.