During the “dog days of Summer”, when it is hot and humid both night and day, clear nights are a rare event. In terms of observing, the weather is usually contrary. On this particular night most of the clouds had departed but the haze was so prominent that the glow around the moon extended 3 moon diameters. I have learned to take “contrary” conditions in stride–usually observing whatever I can. This night, the crater Eratosthenes stood out. While details could not be seen, there was still much that could, as you can see below:
Jesus Christ makes it clear that believers will have trouble in this world. It is a hard reality for some but He assured us that he has overcome the world. His overcoming does not take away the trouble but it does put it in proper perspective. The issue in the end is not that we will have trouble; it is how we respond and walk in the light of our faith when trouble occurs. The question “why me?” is not nearly as appropriate as “why not me?”
Now the observation I was making of this crater was affected by the haze. Detail that I was hoping to see simply could not be seen, yet the time was profitable. I chose the scripture from Psalm 147:5 for the observing sheet because it speaks about the extent or depth of God’s wisdom, which is far beyond comprehension–especially when things are not going as we had hoped or expected–like this observation. Finding God in contrary circumstances is exactly what should occur. It is a theme repeated several times in the Scriptures. David’s honest lament and crying out in so many Psalms echoes the same theme. Job echoes the same theme. The reality of living in a fallen world with trouble but finding God in the midst is precisely what God intends.
For believers, have you learned to walk with him in contrary circumstances? Look for his hand in the situation; it is very likely to be there but the momentary difficulty makes it a little harder to see.
For unbelievers, God wants to make himself known to you. He is able to draw close and undergird those who will call upon him. He makes a deposit of himself in such a way that whether trouble is present or not, you can be confident that you know him. His intention is to save you from your own ways because you are meant to have fellowship with him. In the end, whether you see a situation clearly or not, you can have the peace of Jesus Christ in your heart. His infinite understanding will reach farther than any trouble.
