One evening while on holiday, we went to an outdoor entertainment event, which culminated with our standing in darkness under a magnificent canopy of trees. 

We were told to close our eyes just for a moment and then to look up. When we opened our eyes, we found that hundreds of lights had been strung among the branches—an enchanting sight!

As we drove back to our accommodation through an area with no lights, we looked up to see that the whole sky was covered with brilliant stars—a sight which far exceeded the artificial light display we had seen earlier.

At all times, but especially when we are in need of comfort and assurance, it is important to lift our eyes and look beyond the cares and concerns of our earthly life that can cloud our vision. 

As we do, we realise that we are in the hands of the great God of the universe. He is not a distant figure, as Jesus revealed, but is here with us, sharing our lives and walking with us each day.

Prayer: Gracious God, in every situation of our lives help us to be aware of your nearness and your love reaching out to us. Amen