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Focal verse
“Thus says the Lord, who created the heavens (he is God!), who formed the earth and made it (he established it; he did not create it a chaos; he formed it to be inhabited!): I am the Lord, and there is no other” (Isaiah 45:18).
Reflection
On April 1, our family gathered around the TV to watch Artemis II launch into space. I wanted my kids to see the crewed space flight start its historic journey. I prayed for the astronauts’ safety and held my breath at the countdown. Smoke billowed from the boosters and the cameras fanned out to show spectators on lawn chairs awaiting the launch.
Together we counted down: 3, 2, 1.
The room went silent.
I imagined much of the world watching the rocket blaze through the atmosphere. Four astronauts doing something so few have the opportunity to do, after years of dedication and learning. Countless people working behind the scenes to make this historic launch, 54 years after NASA’s last trip to the moon. And I got to watch it with my children.
Following along the rocket’s 10-day journey, I was struck by the mystery of creation and the vastness of the cosmos. What a ripe time to talk with our children about the grandeur of all creation, here on earth and in the farthest galaxies. A chance to marvel at God, the creator of all.
Sometimes we overcomplicate sharing our faith with our children. We can get intimidated by what we don’t know and the mysteries of faith. But sometimes we can lean into the mystery and enter into conversation with our children.
When we gaze up at the night sky, we can comment on how marvelous the stars and planets are, and about the scientists who continue to learn about outer space. When we take a walk, we say a prayer of thanks for God’s beauty and abundance found in wildflowers, green grass and wisps of clouds.
When we watch four astronauts fly around the moon, traveling farther than any humans have ever been before, we can celebrate the human brain and innovation while also marveling at the God who made all creation. We can stand in awe of the maker and praise the glory of the heavens.
Practices
- Go out as a family and enjoy the night sky. You can grab a book about constellations or simply gaze up and marvel at the stars and vast galaxies overhead. Make Psalm 19:1 your prayer: “The heavens are telling the glory of God, and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.”
- Go on a “color walk” with your family. Pick a color and walk around your neighborhood or town, keeping your eyes open for objects in that color. Give thanks for God’s beautiful and diverse creation.
Prayer
Let nature be your guide for prayer this month. Go outside and listen to the birdsong. Watch the leaves rustle in the wind. Marvel at new buds and the bright flowers in bloom. Sometimes we don’t need words, just presence.
