Photo of a previous solar eclipse, by Jim Strasmaa on Unsplash.com
A solar eclipse inspires everyone in its path to look up and discover wonder. As the moon passes between Earth and the sun, it dramatically changes the light on our planet, showing us the wondrous power of the universe God set in motion. An eclipse illustrates what Psalm 19:1 points out: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.”
This month, a solar eclipse will appear over North America. People from all over the world are planning to travel to the path of totality, spending lots of time and money to witness a few precious minutes of time when the moon will completely cover the sun. Some airlines are even planning special eclipse flights between different cities within the path of totality. Where I live, there will only be a partial eclipse, but I still plan to enjoy it with my family – wearing our eclipse glasses so we can look directly at the sun and experience moments of wonder together.
The celestial dance of the solar eclipse reminds us of our place in the universe. By God’s design, we are a significant part of a much greater whole. The universe is vast, yet we are intimately connected to it by our loving Creator. This humbling reality brings to mind the question in Psalm 8:3-4: “When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them?” A dramatic cosmic event like an eclipse invites us to feel awe and reverence for God and his great love for us.
An eclipse also highlights the contrast between light and darkness. The sun’s radiant light is obscured temporarily by darkness as the moon covers the sun, and then the sun’s bright light emerges once again. Just as the moon temporarily obscures the sun, we sometimes encounter dark situations where we struggle in this fallen world. Yet, like the sun breaking free from the moon’s shadow, God’s light overpowers darkness and redeems dark circumstances. Jesus is the Light of the World who shines hope into our lives and enlightens us with wisdom. In the words of Psalm 113:3: “From the rising of the sun to the place where it sets, the name of the LORD is to be praised.”
Learn more about how nature reveals God’s wonder in the nature chapter of Wake Up to Wonder. Learn more about solar eclipses in this Crosswalk.com article.
After we enjoy the eclipse this month, let’s hold onto the wonder of it for all the days to come. Let’s emerge from the shadow of the eclipse with hearts full of gratitude and awe, ready to welcome the light of God’s love in our lives every day.
Blessings,
Whitney