Day 6 | Convinced by the Big Picture

Reflection

We can excel at focussing on the details of life: I need to buy bananas, and I must pick up Prisha from the station at 5:40. This ability keeps us out of trouble.

Something that comes less naturally to many of us, though, is zooming out to see the bigger picture so that the details of life make sense. As Christians, there’s a big picture we really need to see – a big story that can grow our confidence.

In the beginning, a very good God creates a very good world. When we read the first two chapters of Genesis, we see how life is supposed to be: harmonious, exciting, rich, and beautiful. And then in the closing chapters of Revelation, we see where it’s all heading: we will once again dwell in unbroken and untainted relationship with God, with other people, and with creation. Thank you, Jesus!

When we know the beginning and the end, it helps us live better – more confidently – in the middle. We know that the brokenness, the wrongness, is not how it’s supposed to be, and it’s not ultimately how it will end.

Here’s how it might look in practice. Imagine you’re picking up your kids from school, or you’re in the break area, or at spin class. There’s someone who is always on the fringes; nobody really talks to them. Meanwhile, you’re comfortable in your group of friends.

But you remember Genesis, and you know the beginning of God’s story: that it’s not good for this person to be alone. And you know where God’s story ends up: through faith in Christ, people live forever in the warmth and joy of God’s family. Seeing the big story helps you see how you might act in this moment, and how it matters. It gives you confidence to show love to that person right now.

What story will you live in today?

Responding in prayer

Lord, thank you for all the details of my life: for all the things You call me to do, big and small. As I go through my day, help me remember the big story I’m a part of – Your story.

As I reflect on God’s bigger picture, may both the past and the future give me the confidence to live faithfully in the present.