Devoted预览

Awe and Wonder, written by Victoria Letoa

There’s nothing quite like watching a sunrise: that first glimpse of light that pierces the darkness while the rest of the world is still asleep; the rising dawn that whispers of fresh starts and endless possibilities. You feel the tension between stillness and anticipation as you imagine what this day could bring while trying your best to stay present. As the sun rises, the world springs to life, and all of the creation wakes from slumber. There is a deep pull from the depth of your soul, and an odd feeling starts to bubble up from within – that is, awe and wonder.

We see a similar scene in Psalm 65. Awe fills the earth as He calls forth “songs of joy.” In us, too, awe rises when we are surprised or astonished by something or when we feel the need to look twice or pinch ourselves to ensure that we aren’t just dreaming. As God-created beings, we are designed to live in awe and wonder of our God. From life’s first breath to its last, reverence can fill our lives.

The story of the early Church is full of miraculous wonders: sight for the blind, healing for the crippled, and deliverance for the oppressed, just to name a few. Each were filled with awe and wonder as they marvelled at what the Lord had done. In response to the Israelites’ deliverance from Egypt, Moses sang, “Who among the gods is like you, Lord? Who is like you—majestic in holiness, awesome in glory, working wonders?” Filled with gratitude for their rescue, the Israelites proclaimed God’s glory. In the same way, it is in our remembrance that we, too, can be reverent and overcome by a holy fear of the Lord.

The Gospel message alone is enough to inspire awe. Why? Because the cross is the wonder of all wonders (Charles Spurgeon). Remembering our sin and shame, yet trusting in the redemptive blood of Christ, is the deep well of a life of wonder. Remember Jesus: the Lion and the Lamb, the Bright Morning Star, and the Lover of the lost, who came to restore and liberate each of us. Consider the work of God within your heart, and you will have a great cause for wonder.

Much like a sunrise, great wonders - even when they have grown familiar - continue to spark admiration, awe, and deep reverence. Through our practice of devotion, we can experience true awe and wonder of our great God. So, take time to remember today. Humble yourself before the Lord and be reminded of your humanity in the context of His glory and goodness.

• When was the last time you were filled with awe?
• Take some time today to think on the things that God has brought you through and delivered you from, as well as the goodness He has in store for you.