A Glimpse of Skinks
For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. 1 Corinthians 13:12 (ESV)
God really has created some incredible things for us to see! I am not sure that I would have given a skink the time of day two years ago, but my love for nature has grown immensely. Like Marianne Campbell (All God’s Creatures), I want to catch more than a quick glimpse of this critter with the colorful tail.
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The flash of bright blue at the trail’s edge was all I saw of the western skink. I knew better than to go off-trail looking for it among the poison oak. Oh, but I did want to see it again with its beautiful ultramarine tail. For the rest of the hike, I kept my eyes open, hoping to seen another skink, but they were too quick. A rustle in the grass, a burst of blue, was all I could ever catch of them. Now on every hike in that area, I search for skinks, hoping to sight one unaware at a distance so I may admire it and maybe get a photo. To date, I’ve only caught glimpses of these elusive creatures.
My strong desire to get a better look at the gorgeous western skink made me think of the Bible verse about living with God in heaven. “For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face.” I know I don’t have to say this, but I want to see heaven even more than I want to see a skink.
I know heaven is going to be beyond words because I often catch glimpses of it here on earth. Whether I see a skink and its striking blue tail or gaze at a glowing sunset or am uplifted by the kind words and actions of my fellow human beings, there are dim views of heaven all around me. God’s love is too great to be hidden.
How well do others glimpse heaven through my words and actions? It’s a question I would do well to prayerfully consider. Since I want to be a blessing to others and show them the love of Christ, how can I make Him more visible in me?
[Christ] works on us through each other. Men are mirrors, or “carriers” of Christ to other men. —C. S. Lewis
Loving Lord, thank You for the joy of nature. Please help us to slow down to see more of what You’ve given to us. Show us how to bless others with Your Love. AMEN.