As the weights on our shoulders or our hearts increase, we become less aware of our surroundings. Things that separate us from God can give us a heavy heart. Even when things are common and easily seen, a burdened person can have trouble seeing them. Sometimes the cause is being too busy; sometimes it is sin, and sometimes it is circumstances seemingly beyond our control. I have heard many testimonies from Christians who have been touched by God in the midst of all types of circumstances, but this paraphrase I have heard more than once: ‘colors seem brighter’. In a manner of speaking, when Jesus unburdens our hearts when we are born again or we when we meet with Him afresh, life becomes alive in a new way.
Observing a common sight in the sky is an example. A burdened heart often does not see the array of stars or the rising of a moon, which are common sights. But I have noticed that observing and discovery change when the Author of creation is connected to them and our hearts are not burdened. Orion is probably one of the most common constellations. It is also mentioned by God twice in the scriptures, so He knows that it is a good representation of part of His masterpieces in the heavens. Most of the world’s population can easily see it. It is easy to see in the northern hemisphere in late winter and early spring where it is high in the southern sky in the early evening.
The view in the sketch is a simple one: the center of the Orion constellation could be seen between a tree with light snow on the branches and clouds. The scene only lasted for an instant before clouds intervened. I made some notes and drew what I remembered. The scene reminded me of His constant oversight, His consistency, and His desire for me to have a rested heart. The weather might change and hide the sky, but the sky is still there. My local difficulties might seem to intervene, but He is still Lord.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Technical Note: The drawing was an eyes-only view in the early evening. Background light from a house lighted the tree with snow. The clouds reflected light from a nearby town. The constellation’s major four stars (Betelgeuse is the reddish star near the top) and the belt of Orion (the center 3 stars) could be seen through light haze. The Orion Nebula was a “smudge” and a couple other star groups appeared as smudges. The sketch used white pencil and pastel on black paper. Contrast was raised for the web view.
