Nougat 15

Today’s Holy Nougat invites us to focus on God’s glory in all we do.

“How great is the Lord, how deserving of praise, in the city of our God, which sits on his holy mountain! It is high and magnificent; the whole earth rejoices to see it! Mount Zion, the holy mountain, is the city of the great King!”

Psalms 48:1-2 NLT

Have you ever stopped to think about God’s greatness? What makes God great, and if God is great, what’s the difference between God’s greatness and ours? A human tendency is to ascribe to God characteristics and attributes that are like us. If we were to think along those lines, would we be frustrated or annoyed with others unwillingness (or inability) to see us for who we are? Do we then presume that God is disappointed with us when we fail to acknowledge God’s existence? I suspect so, given that Exodus 20:5b says God doesn’t tolerate idolatry.

Probably the easiest way to avoid idolatry is to see/seek God’s fingerprints in all we do, view and experience. For me, it is an automatic response after the rains, to see God’s majesty in the ‘washed’ creation; but I do not consciously see in every single situation or place. If we can start with one thing, one situation then we might consciously expand our vision until it becomes second nature. Even in bad circumstances.

What is the scenario that generally results in our forgetfulness (of God’s greatness)? We can challenge ourselves to start there. By examining the root of our lack of sight, we can then strive to correct our vision, with God’s help. Whether it’s fear, vanity or sheer forgetfulness, we incorporate spiritual practices of mindfulness and gratitude. And in so doing, ensure that we place God firmly at the center of our experiences.

I pray that this reflection has reminded us to place our focus on God, where even the mountains in our environment help us to prepare for meeting on God’s holy mountain.

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May all we seek be found in Christ