It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips for us. Blessed with free housing, my husband and I celebrated a significant anniversary a few years ago with a trip to Kauai, Hawaii. And the highlight? Oh, definitely the helicopter ride throughout the island! It’s not something that we would’ve normally done, but winning a free ticket made it both a no brainer and an unforgettable experience.
There’s no way to describe the magnificence of the island sites that are hidden to those who remain below on the roads and beaches. Because sitting in the front seat of a chopper with an unhindered view below, it was honestly as if we stumbled onto something that should never be seen by human eyes. I remember having thoughts of, “Surely this is for God’s eyes only!” And, “Why should I be allowed to see such magnificence from the hand of God?”
I know He was smiling as those thoughts swirled in my mind as quickly as the helicopter blades above us.Because our God delights in revealing Himself. He loves disclosing wonder after wonder of who He is – whether it’s through His Word, basking in His Spirit’s presence, or gazing on the hidden treasures of His creation. God is always inviting and revealing. (Psalm 19:1-2; John 14:21)
Friends, shouldn’t worship feel that way? Have that expectation?
As we bow before God’s throne of grace – to exalt His mighty name and pour out at His feet from all He’s given us – I feel like He’s calling out, Keep looking. Soar higher. There are so many wonders to behold here in My presence.
What wonders? He may want you to see the greater depths of His love, expanse of his grace, or intimacies of His presence. Or maybe He longs to reveal His mighty strength, limitless mercy, or holy, holy, holiness. Or perhaps He has something for us that you and I can’t possibly imagine sitting right here, right now.
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Who is like You among the gods, O LORD? Who is like You, majestic in holiness, Awesome in praises, working wonders?” Exodus 15:11
My breath was taken away by the grandeur of God’s creation only because I was on that helicopter ride with my eyes wide open. I was ready to be wowed and expecting to engage my spectacular God. I had no idea what revelations He had for me that day, but I was there, ready, and willing.
I don’t know how often I’ve stuck with the routine car ride or chosen the backseat with a distracted view of His glory. The memories of entering worship nonexpectant and uninvolved will never leave me. And I can’t imagine how much I missed.
We should learn from David, who sought hard after God – whatever life was throwing at Him – until his sights were fully set on the thought-altering, life-changing, worship-drawing view of his magnificent God.
“O God, You are my God; I shall seek You earnestly; My soul thirsts for You, my flesh yearns for You, In a dry and weary land where there is no water. Thus I have seen You in the sanctuary, To see Your power and Your glory. Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips will praise You” (Psalm 63:1-3).
And from Moses, who boldly asked of God, “I pray You, show me Your glory!” (Exodus 33:18). Ahhh!!
Why would we ever dare ask the same? Only because it would produce more worship for our glorious God. It’s all about Him.
Oh God, may we humbly approach your throne with souls yearning and expecting to behold more of who You are. Still our minds. Open our eyes. Show us Your glory! May we soar high in our seeking and bow low in surrender before You in worship.
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