Sunday in the Sky

Lately I feel that I've been very self-absorbed. This next week is finals week for me, and I've had a lot on my mind. But there are so many people who are suffering deeply right now, especially with the tornadoes that left so much destruction behind in the South. I think what I need today--and every day--is time spent alone with God, in reflection and prayer for others, as well as a right heart attitude for myself.

Today let us turn our gazes upward. I read a very special devotional this morning that I wish to share with you. May it remind us to have a proper perspective today and in the days to come:

(Picture taken in Arlington National Cemetery last summer; click to enlarge.)

The Face of God

"During the Battle of Britain hundreds of Americans went to Canada to enlist with the Royal Candian Air Force (RCAF) and to join the fight against Nazi Germany. Eighteen year-old John Magee was one of these daring young men. After training he was sent to England where he joined No. 412 Fighter Squadron, RCAF. Flying his Spitfire in fighter sweeps over France and England he achieved the rank of pilot officer.

One day while flying at the extremely high altitude of 30,000 feet, he was struck with inspiration for a poem. On the ground he finished his poem and put it on the back of a letter to his parents. The words of the young airman continue to paint a vivid picture:

Up, up the long, delirious burning blue
I've topped the wind-swept heights with easy grace
Where never lark, or ever eagle flew--
And, while with silent, lifting mind I've trod
The high untrespassed sanctity of space,
Put out my hand, and touched the face of God.

Unfortunately John Magee was killed three months after writing this poem. His majestic words have been quoted often, most notably by Ronald Regan, eulogizing the Challenger 7 crew after their tragic loss in 1986: 'They waved goodbye and slipped the surly bonds of Earth to touch the face of God.'

To say that you have 'touched the face of God' may sound presumptuous. However, I believe that we all desire to come closer to God, and that there are moments when we feel his presence. The beauty of a sunset, a storm, many natural vistas, all evoke thoughts of God and his majesty. In quiet moments of prayer we often sense his presence and tender mercy. These moments are real and open to us daily as a sure way for each to 'touch the face of God.'

'The heavens declare the glory of God;
The skies proclaim the work of his hands.' ~Psalm 19:1"

~ Larkin Spivey, from the devotional book Battlefields & Blessings: Stories of Faith and Courage from World War II ~

*Note from Amber: I was deeply touched when I saw a quote from this poem on a grave marker in Arlington National Cemetery (pictured above). And I was so blessed to find a reference to it today in my devotional reading! May you be blessed by these words, as well.

Also, I received a copy of Battlefields & Blessings from the author for review, and while I'm not very far into it, I might do a partial review soon. It's a powerful book!*

Remembered

I have no words to tell you what the service at Arlington National Cemetery was like. Even now as I write this, tears are coming to my eyes. I put together another video to try and capture some of the experience, which I hope will convey even just a little of the emotion of this morning. The love, the service, and the honor shown this day will never be forgotten.