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Did you know that clouds are a symbol for the presence of God?

I’m a nervous flier, so I rarely sit by a window on a plane … but the last time I had to take a window seat, I got to experience an amazing sunset as the plane took off and rose through the clouds. This gorgeous sight reminded me that throughout the Bible, clouds are a common image of God’s presence and glory. For example, there are clouds that surround Moses when he is on top of Mount Sinai meeting with God, and the disciples of Jesus are also surrounded by a cloud during the transfiguration—when they saw Jesus in his full glory. Then there’s the cloud that leads the Israelites in the desert, and the one that fills the tabernacle and the temple. Clouds in the Bible are a symbol and a reminder of God being present with His followers in a specific location.

Jesus even said that clouds would be part of his presence too. He said the world would see him “coming on clouds with great power and glory” when he was describing his return.

So when you look up today and see clouds in the sky—whether they’re tall cumulonimbus, wispy cirrus, black rain clouds or even a thick fog—be reminded that God is with you.

In fact, go outside right now, look to the sky and let the clouds remind you in this moment, that God is present with you. Well … go on!

For reflection:

"And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of cloud to lead them along the way," — Exodus 13:21