The song is based on Psalm 139, which eloquently explains how thoroughly God knows us. Nothing is hidden from him. His love reaches the believer anywhere--including and through the heavens, the seas, the depths, the heights, the dark times, and the bright times. Since he inspires us to post the contents of the inspiration page, we thought it fitting to have this song available because it also points to Him.
Used with permission
Astronomical Sketches and Stories
Weightier Than the Weather and the Moon. I enjoy observing the moon and watching the weather but when it comes to judging what is important and what is not, what we deem as important often needs some adjustment. The subject was important for Jesus Christ to address, and remains important today. See the painting of two craters on the moon in the context of the subject. [Whole Story]
A Christmas Message from Chasing Orion's Nebula on a Cloudy Night Sometimes an observer has to work a bit to see something if the sky is "noisy" with weather activity. Out of one of those nights full of clouds and haze, here is a Christmas message about finding God in a busy time. [Whole Story]
Point of Praise I was with some musicians and gave advice I have often repeated: learn to be comfortable and free in worshipping God yourself. If you do that, leading worship is simply doing the same thing with others. Usually, people look at me strange when I give this advice. Few do it. Believers in general will praise lots of things in dramatic ways but would not think of doing this on their own with God. This observation of a beautiful sky object talks about this point. [Whole Story]
Moonstruck to Godstruck Have you ever just been taken with a scene? You see something, which may even be familiar, and you are struck with something about scene. This observation of a big feature on the moon (Sinus Iridum) was one of those time. The scene was beautiful and marked by lunar dawn in the middle of the scene, but I was struck by more. God's hand was evident--not only in the moon's features but in the observing opportunity. [Whole Story]
Light Fight: A Biblical Lesson from Light Pollution
Since 80% of the world's population lives in city regions, light pollution is so common that a large fraction of people have never seen the night sky from a truly dark place. We have had company from cities that cannot sleep because the darkness of the country makes them nervous. This observing period shows a sketch made with my eyes in a light polluted area, where only a few stars could be seen but there is an important lesson that came out of this time. [Whole Story]
Glimpse of a City of Stars
It is a simple straight forward biblical concept: the heavens declare the glory of God. So when an observer sees a city of stars--one of those beautiful galaxies--he can be encouraged that God is that big, that awesome, and that meticulous. The Sculptor Galaxy (NGC 253) is a mere 9 million light years away and contains millions of stars, yet we can see it with small scopes! Here is a story and painting of it that I developed in October 2011. [Whole Story]
Taste of the Unsearchable
Whether it is a child or an old man who looks up at the night sky, something happens to most people when they look up. A question comes to mind for the searching soul. This series of sketches of the moon and a couple craters talk about what happens and provide an answer. [Whole Story]
The Trifid: Beauty in Catastrophe The southern skies near the galactic center of the Milky Way show a number of beautiful objects, but they also remind me of the state of the heavens: a state of decay. Observing this part of heavens reminds me of some common features between the Grand Canyon and the stars. For the whole story, go here.
God's Invitations with Drama
An edge-on galaxy is like a calling card and invitation rolled into one. Our God is dramatic when He beckons us to consider what he has made in the heavens. I was reminded this when I observed and sketched the Needle Galaxy. [Whole Story]
The Fear of the Lord in Observing the Moon? Can it be that our world view of the universe affects how we interpret our astronomical observations? This set of sketches from the area of Mare Crisium includes a short piece about this subject. Mare Crisium is a wonderful lunar target that is easily seen with a binoculars or small telescope. Features can also be studied at high magnification. These sketches include both narrow field (high magnification) and wide field (low magnification) observations. [Whole Story]
How Definite is Your God?
This couple of sketches of objects in the southern part of the celestial sphere are presented with a lesson about God's being real. Is he? Is he some sort of religious notion or is he the mighty Creator and Saviour of our souls? If he cannot create, he is not much of a God. Likewise, if Jesus did not rise from the dead, then how can he keep us for eternity? These are excellent questions. [Whole Story]
When Bad Things Happen. It is disturbing when bad things happen to good people. Does it make any difference whether folks are good or not when bad things occur? Consider this question as you see this series of observing sketches and stories. [Whole Story]
Lunar Walls and Walls of the Heart Our attention is often drawn to things because they seem to stick out. Something we hear or see that is different than normal often gets quick attention. However, a Christian should have his ears and eyes peeled, because noticing something can have a different origin. God may want to teach something to us! This was the case for these two recent observations and sketches of zones of separation on the lunar surface. [Whole Story]
The Present Wonder of a Galaxy Pair. It is amazing that we can see galaxies but more amazing that in a few cases we can see a pair or trio of galaxies in the same field of view of a telescope. There are lessons to learn from this. The two sketches and story talk about this pair around the Ursa Major Constellation. [Whole Story]
Evening and Dawn
Paired observing sessions, where an evening observing can be followed by a morning period, can be special. This set of periods captured a galaxy in the evening, the Kepler Crater at dawn, and a lesson for both. [Whole Story]
M43--Hidden But Found M43 is usually lost in the glow of M42, the Great Orion Nebula, but has unique features and a beauty all its own. As I studied and sketched M43 on this occasion, I was reminded how easy it is to be captivated by big bright things so that the smaller less obvious things remain hidden unless we take the time to look further. In like manner, God does not forget what might seem hidden or of lesser importance. [Whole Story]
Last of a Year; Last of a Star This nebula can be seen with a small binocular or telescope. As I recorded my observations, I found the session a very real reminder of how the heavens point us to consider where we have been and where we are going. Is God in our lives or is he not? Does it matter? So this story and sketch come out of observing the Crab Nebula [Whole Story]
The Pinwheel Galaxy and an Important Question The amazing thing about observing is that every observation is a little different. Each opportunity to study and object shows something different. These 3 observations and sketches were no different, but their impact reached much further than simply recording what was seen. [Whole Story]
Pursuit of Schiller and the Pursuit of God. It is not uncommon for a painting or sketch to be difficult for the observer. This sketch of the crater Schiller on the moon was hard for me. However, the very difficulty in the sketch was the genesis for a lesson in the pursuit of God. See the link to see the sketch, a description of the sketch process, and how it related to another pursuit. [Whole Story]
Jupiter Observations and a Lesson in Atmospheres Observing planets can be heavily affected by the atmosphere--sometimes the effects are larger than how big the telescope is. Sketches from two observing periods illustrate the point. Atmosphere in the heart has the same kind of dominant effect, and can determine what we are able to see around us in spiritual terms. [Whole Story]
Lunar Lessons--Mare Imbrium by Day Observing the moon during the day can be exciting, especially for students. It is something we teach teachers to do because it can be done during school hours at certain times of the lunar cycle. Here is an example of what can be done and how we would encourage a student. [Whole Story]
Tale of Two Craters I reviewed a moon map and noticed a crater (Stadius) that could barely be seen; it was adjacent to a prominent crater (Eratosthenes). I put both targets in the center of the field of view and studied them for a few minutes. I was fascinated with the differences in the craters, which led to a sketch and a story. Sometimes the visual differences in things can result in the wrong conclusions. [Whole Story]
Islands in the Sky Like the Sculptor Galaxy This set of sketches and comments are about the characteristics of these incredible galactic islands in the heavens. The Sculptor Galaxy is the example I am using in this sketch story, which I observed from my backyard in October 2010. For readers who have never looked at a galaxy themselves, there is enough information presented for you to find this one if you wish. The story provides some astounding characteristics of space and sky objects in physical and Biblical terms. [Whole Story]
Comet Hartley 2 and the Brevity of Life.
The links takes you to 4 sketches of an active comet that is currently viewable (October 2010). Each sketch was developed under different circumstances and shows detail at different magnifications. This comet is not dramatic to the eye like some in recent years, but the lessons of comets are similar: they speak of the brevity of life. [Whole Story]
Can you bind, loose, or bring forth the stars? The answer may be obvious but the question was actually posed to a well known biblical character. As I observed three clusters in a popular region of the southern skies, I thought about this question and its repercussions. It was good evening to give thanks, and perhaps sketch and story will encourage others. [Whole Story]
Joy in Sagittarius Funny how a little event can give rise to joy but we are not just talking about an emotion. This particular shared night of observing was a reminder to us about how God can show up. In the process, we had opportunity to observe a couple beautiful objects in the southern skies. Would you join us in the story and sketch? [Whole Story]
Seeing the Sky and Seeing the Kingdom
The sky can appear radically different in a polluted city compared to a dark place in the country. The difference, if one does not know anything about observational astronomy, can be mind boggling the first time one observes the glory of the heavens on a clear dark night. The difference is similar to a person who can see the Kingdom of God and one who cannot, because a filter has not been removed! [Whole Story]
Summer Color in the South The central region of our galaxy is highest in the skies during a few months of the year. The region is full of beautiful objects whose colors and shapes are astounding. For so many centuries the details remained hidden, but now they can be seen so easily and appreciated by so many. Their appearance, placement, and our ability to see them contribute to the importance God puts on the heavens: they were created "good" and they were meant for us to observe. Join us with a review of one object: the Swan. [Whole Story]
The Wonder of Clavius & The Wonder of God The image shows a small part of Clavius and the link takes you to the whole crater sketch. The real value of an observing period is coupling observing with some thinking: just what is is all about? So if the day has been too busy and loud, which is often the case in this culture, perhaps this story and sketch will provide a break and encourage the reader. [Whole Story]
Does God's Mercy Extend to Me? It started as a simple observing time on a still warm summer night. Moisture in the atmosphere turned the crescent moon orange. An old locust was going to block my view so I made a quick sketch before the moon disappeared behind it. I began to think about His mercy, and how far it extends. The livable temperatures and moisture in which I could observe are part of that extended mercy. It was a good night to give thanks. [Whole Story]
Pictures and Stories
False Spring, Real Spring--False Peace, Real Peace
We are prone to sway with the circumstances immediately in front of us. Whether the issue is the weather or peace, humans tend to respond to what is immediate but not necessarily what is true. The home owner that plants because he sees an early spring flower in February is making a mistake. The person who thinks there is peace because it seems peaceful, while is soul remains unsettled, is also making a mistake. [Whole Story]
The Power of Creation to the Have-nots A recent observing time at home took me back to scenes in three countries, where people are hungry to have someone tell them about the wonders of creation in a practical way but with conviction that comes from Jesus Christ. [Whole Story]
Why Consider the Number of Our Days? God provides reminders each day to consider Him in its midst. Is it possible that He keeps track of each day in each of us? Is it possible we can make the day truly make a difference...in a good way? Consider this parable of the earth. [Whole Story]
20-Year Anniversary: Walking with Disease, the Stars, and the Comforter This little story shows a couple pictures, a couple sketches, and a story that links all of them. It may encourage someone walking through hardship or living with a life threatening disease. [Whole Story]
Parables of the Earth: Sun Exposure Whether a pastor, teacher, parent, or plain believer, each can learn from what happens to trees whose only variable is the amount of sun they get on each day. By keeping our eyes peeled and our hearts alert, God will continue to teach through what He has made. This lesson was one of those times for me, but has implications that can benefit many others. [Whole Story]
Parables of the Earth: God in Calm and Storm What do you say or how do you feel about weather? Is it untouched by the hand of God? Is a storm bad and calm good? How can Hurricane Irene have God's signature? How can the drought in southwest be attributed to Him? These are serious questions. The article and pictures address the answer. [Whole Story]
Parables of the Earth: Houses Built on Sand Are you concerned about the economy? In a more fundamental sense, are you concerned about what you have built in life? God has clear and explicit guidance. He also is the master of telling parables that use things we see all the time. Then we get a clear picture of what He is saying. This story with pictures talks about His guidance and how our responses make the difference. [Whole Story]
Love in Action: Observing on the Blue Ridge Relationships are built or broken by what we do in awkward and uncomfortable situations. There is never a time where a relationship among friends or spouses cannot grow, and they usually grow the most when there is a bump in the road--a problem or difficulty. Knowing the practical nature of Jesus' command is a key, so when we draw upon our faith as we love each other, things happen. Rifts can be healed. Here is a practical example from us. [Whole Story]
Tale of Two Continents
This is a rather remarkable to story of two men on two continents. They do not know each other but we know both of them. I spent time with both men. They came to mind in the aftermath of an observing session in Virginia on June 2, 2011 when I studied and sketched a beautiful pair of galaxies. The next day I happened to be looking at pictures and saw some of each of these men. So the story begins with a sketch and goes to Uganda and the Philppines--the homes of these two men. [Whole Story]
Parables of the Earth: The Lord of the Coastal Marsh The Lord calls everyone to turn aside to Him. He does not do it to destroy us but to save us. Once saved or redeemed by Jesus Christ, believers are called to return to Him as a practice, because He is meant to be a place of retreat for the hungry soul. I learned this lesson again in the marsh of a coastal bay. If allowed, His creation speaks loudly. This is one example on the subject of returning to Him. [Whole Story]
Parables of the Earth: Nuisance Weeds or Blessings in Disguise? One of the ways God teaches me is through observing what is around me. Weeds are generally a nuisance, but on this walk the Holy Spirit brought my attention to some weeds to teach me some things about the Kingdom. It was not hard to get my attention--the fall colors were in full array around me. [Whole Story]
Are You Leading Children Astray?
By word and deed we lead children the right way or the wrong way. In today's environment that is overloaded with media, direct observation and contact is dangerously low. Here are two short real stories with a short sketch and lesson about the subject. [Whole Story]
Peaceful Fellowship--Observing Together This story did not start with a good day. It was strained and uncomfortable. Jesus gave the exhortation to love each other because it is needed--not because we so easily waltz into loving each other on our own. So if you have had your share of rough days when relationships get strained, perhaps this little story will help. [Whole Story]
Making Disciples or Making Children?
When you look at church or ministry but also look at yourself in that context, what do you see? The scriptures are very particular about the precious life of Christ in us, which includes what it can do in our lives as we grow. Fundamentally, we are exhorted to walk as disciples. Are you? The forest and trees illustrate the same principle of making and being disciples in a graphic way. [Whole Story]
The Grand Signature of God We spend quite a bit of time on this web site displaying sketches of objects in the heavens and relating them to Biblical truths. One need not go further than observing the magnificence of a sunset, however, to see God's signature and invitation for us to consider who he is. The message of our surroundings, like the message of the heavens, points to him. [Whole Story]
The Lessons of Mothers and Fathers in the Faith
This story is moved to the top for old and new visitors. Agnes Numer is the person in the picture. Her example has inspired many people and the birth of many ministries. Her testament: she has produced fruit and has inspired many others to do the same. If you have not read this story, we invite you to do so. [Whole Story]
The Faces of Giving Hearts
Can you recognize the face of a believer in Jesus Christ? Surely a believer recognizable by what a person does or says. There is good news and good guidance in the Bible about what happens to a person's life when it is affected by a relationship with Jesus Christ. We have learned by experience and affirm that the scriptures are true: we can be changed and we can give from the heart! Here are a few examples. [Whole Story]
Taking Time to Express Love to Ezra
It could be a little boy anywhere, but this little boy was in a home in Uganda where we were staying. There was opportunity to get to know him, watch him do his chores, and see him around his friends. The circumstances that unfolded during our visit reminded me of how God gets our attention and expresses His love for us. [Whole Story]
Trials and Perseverance
Trials are messy. They bring out the best and the worst in people. This story is not for wimps. Trials for the Christian have much spiritual benefit but it requires walking through them hanging on to God. I know. So two little sketches a few days apart now has a meaning: a period of time in a trial. [Whole Story]
"This is a most amazing day, Madam!"
There are times when a little nudge from the Holy Spirit inspires a thought. As events unfold, God often reveals His hand by bringing the unexpected to show His love. This was one of those times, and it especially affected Norma, one of several orphan children in the home of our friend, Gertrude, in Nyamabuga, Uganda. [Whole story]
Walk with Him through What? Most people remember certain events by the scenes that occurred at the same time. Sometimes it seems like time stops for a moment when something surprising or important occurs. We remember a car ride one morning, because it began a different chapter of our lives that continues but is not easy. Like other events, however, it reminds us that God is with us. [Whole Story]
Parking Lots and Alters The scene is inconspicuous but is evidence of decisions by believers. Whether we construct a parking lot or redo an alter, there are decisions underneath those decisions that display what is important to us. Sometimes what is important to us is at the expense of what works can be done by faith. With this in view, little decisions become much more important. [whole story]
The Old Plank School When I first arrived in the village, I was greeted by over 300 smiling faces. The children were waiting for us and they were excited. They were to see white people for the second or third time. They were smiling and hiding behind one another. We waved at them; some hid their faces while others beamed with joy and waved back. It was a very special first time greeting for us all. [Whole Story]
A Day in the Life of an African Child Most of us have seen children playing in America, but even the most experienced among us wouldn't try to teach 81 1st graders alone. They do it in Africa! I was there and sat facing the Nyamabuga School's first grade class. Their teacher sat facing me with her back to the children. After a slight sound was heard behind her, she simply put her hand up beside her shoulder and brought it down. [Whole Story]
Happy as a Clam Happy as a clam, yes, that's me. On our last trip to Uganda I had the pleasure of setting up a small library. The first picture shows me digging through boxes of new and used books as I stocked cabinets with the treasured books. Gertrude, our hostess, believes this to be one of the first village schools in Uganda to have its own library. [Whole Story]
Archive
Archive of past Inspirational Stories and Sketches
