Where is God?

A recent children’s sermon at our church caught my attention.  The leader asked the little ones sitting cross-legged around her, “Who can tell me, where is God?”  I was amazed at some of the answers the small group shared.

“God is up in Heaven.”

“God is in our church.”

“God is in the good people.”

This lesson caused me to pause, wondering at all the places I see every day, and moments I experience, that clearly show me where God is.  Two weeks ago, when I reached a low point of frustration and confusion, a dear friend stopped by unexpectedly just to say hello and give me a hug. She said I had been on her mind.  God was there.  He hugged me through her.

We have a dear family friend currently struggling with cancer and the rigor of his treatments has caused his spirits to spiral downward.  After weeks in the hospital, he was given a ten-day reprieve to go home and feel “normal” for a while before he returned to his treatments.  During that break, his friends rallied around him, lavishing love upon him and his wife, bolstering his spirits and helping bring some fun and laughter back into his days.  God was there.  He was visible in the casseroles that were brought to the home, the stories that were told, and the warmth of friendship shared.  When he returned to the hospital for another round of treatment, it was with a greater sense of confidence than before.  He is now able to renew his faith and trust that God is with him as he continues this rough journey.

In the Old Testament, we are promised in I Chronicles 16:27 that “Honor and majesty are found in His presence; strength and joy are found where He dwells.” All we must do is look around and see the many acts that reflect God’s presence.  We need to learn to look through spiritual eyes and listen with spiritual ears.  We will see Him.  He is here.