The World As We Know It

Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. --1st Corinthians 13:12

William James, philosopher and psychologist once stated that humans only use 10% of our brains. Although this is not a particularly valid scientific statement, on a philosophical level it serves to remind us that we are limited creatures. This does not imply that we are unintelligent beings. Rather, it seems to indicate that even the most intelligent among us cannot fully comprehend the truths contained in this world. I believe that our understanding of God's influence in the world is only a hair's breadth in comparison to the mystery of God's sovereign will as it is carried out in this world and the next.

God reveals himself to us on a daily basis in ways that are profound in their simplicity. I am most often reminded of this when my husband tells me he loves me. Love is a gift from God, and the love between husband and wife is used throughout the Bible as a metaphor for Christ's love for the church. I am awe-struck when I think that even a marriage as wonderful as ours is a mere glimpse of the depth of intimacy we will someday share with God in His presence.

The world as we know it offers a very limited view of that which is to come. Our best experiences, our richest blessings, our deepest relationships--all that is beautiful about these things--will be greatly magnified when we are finally able to see things from God's vantage point. From where we are standing now, we cannot even begin to comprehend the magnitude of such a thing. Eternity is a difficult concept for us to grasp since we live in a finite world.

As Christians, our faith enables us to believe in God, His heavenly kingdom and His purpose for our lives here on earth, even though we are unable to understand these things. Because of our limited perception, the mystery of God's sovereignty, eternal glory and infinite wisdom are all the more profound.