When God is Hidden

Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me.” Revelation 3:20

A few days ago, America enjoyed a full-blown solar eclipse, the first one since 1979. As I understand it, the moon’s migration took it directly between the earth and the sun, blocking the fireball from our view. The sun was still there—just hidden by the moon.

Interestingly, the sun’s diameter is about 400 times as big as the moon’s. And the sun is about 400 times farther away from earth than the moon. It is amazing that a small dark moon can momentarily block the brilliance of the much larger sun.

There are moments when I lose sight of God’s glory, power, love, and goodness. A problem, question, temptation, or rebellion comes between God and me. In those moments, when a little problem looms large, I’m tempted to think God isn’t really there.

Thankfully, eclipses are rare. And when they do occur, they are temporary. The sun soon reemerges with all its radiance, and the tiny object that came between the sun and me moves on.

Jesus anticipated that fears would loom bigger than life and eclipse the disciples’ view of Him. He knew they might doubt that He was still there and still cared for them. So, Jesus said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

Prayer

God, you are ever near us. Make your face to shine upon us when problems or circumstances seem to hide you from us, or even when we turn away from you. You have promised to be with us, even to the end of the age; let the reality of that promise make us ever aware of your presence and care. In our Savior’s name, amen.