These Same Skies

— Midweek Meditations:
thoughts, inspiration and encouragement
from ACF community members —

“From the very beginning, the skies have displayed the glory of God. The skies over creation. The skies over the miracles of the Old Testament. The skies over the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus — these same skies are the ones we live and worship under today.”

(Chris Davenport of Hillsong Worship)

During this period of Lent as we approach Easter, which has not only symbolic, but profound and life-transforming meaning, I was reminded of how, as believers, we are connected across the globe. Under the vast skies that stretch from continent to continent, Christians stand together – though separated by oceans, languages and cultures. The same sun rises over cathedrals and humble homes, reminding us that we live beneath one heaven, watched over by one faithful God.

In these days of reflection, our hearts turn toward the cross. We remember the sacrifice of Jesus, lifted between earth and sky, arms open wide enough to gather the whole world. The cross stands not only on a hill long ago, but in the center of our shared story – a sign of suffering embraced, love poured out and hope born in darkness.

Whether in the ancient streets of Jerusalem or in our own neighborhoods, we kneel beneath the same sky and trace the same symbol of faith. In doing so, we are woven together – one body, one prayer, one longing for resurrection morning.

“And once again I look upon the cross where You died
I’m humbled by Your mercy, and I’m broken inside
Once again I thank You”

(Once Again by Matt Redman)

Here is a prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours which is fitting to this time of Lent, as we examine our lives and our hearts. May the shadow of the cross draw us closer – to God, and to one another.

Lord our God, Father of all,
You guard us under the shadow of your wings
And search into the depths of our hearts.
Remove the blindness that cannot know you
And relieve the fear that would hide us from your sight.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
Amen

---

The ACF Midweek Meditations
are written by a diverse group of our church members with the intention to seek God’s fingerprints in our lives. They range from somber to humorous and are inspired by all facets of live and faith. Written by ordinary people from all walks of life, they reflect a wide range of Christian backgrounds and spiritualities.

Each week’s text portrays the individual viewpoint of its author. They might not always resonate with everyone, and are not meant to be understood as representing the Anglican Church Freiburg as a whole. Yet, as a church that is aiming to ‘Build a Community of Grace’ we seek to practice learning from and listening to one another.

We pray that these humble ponderings add a small spark of blessing to your week.

---