Cloud Cover

“But you are the same, and your years have no end.” Psalm 102:27

Today’s Old Testament verse from the Daily Texts made me chuckle, albeit ruefully. A year having no end? Sounds like 2020 to me! The latest indignity was cloud cover over Chicagoland, obscuring the view of the “Christmas Star.” The great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn hasn’t brought these planets this close in the sky since 1623. Of course we missed out on seeing it!

But here’s the thing: The light still shines. We may not have been able to see this heavenly wonder, but that doesn’t mean it wasn’t there. Many in other places could see it (thanks for posting pictures). Even here, it happened. It was simply clouded, hidden from our sight.

The work of God is often like this. Our vision is clouded by many things, both within and outside ourselves. God continues, however, to be at work through the gospel. To redeem us from sin and death. To call, gather, enlighten, and sanctify the church. To be present with us in darkness and shadow.

I imagine there were plenty of nights when the Magis’ view of the real Christmas Star was impeded. You know what? They kept going anyway. After all, this year will come to a close and a New Year will dawn. Obviously, chuckling aside, the psalmist is not telling us that there are years that don’t end. The proclamation is that God’s years are endless. God has time to work out God’s promises. We, with patience and hope and faith, simply need to keep going.

I understand we might have a chance to see the conjunction again this evening. Perhaps it will not be as bright as it would have been last night, but that’s okay. I’ll look to the sky and hope.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

God, thank you for Jesus, the light that shines in and through all darkness. May he pierce the clouds in our hearts and clear the skies of sin and suffering in this world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: The boys, January 2, 2020, when this year was young and all the puzzle pieces seemed to be coming together (even if they were pieces to a Chicago Cubs puzzle).