One of the first things our church’s Sunday School classes do each week is to share “God Sightings.” A God sighting is a glimpse of God’s love displayed in everyday life. It can be hard to find the grace and love of God in a negative society. Watching for evidence of God helps our kids know that God’s love is real. This is something adults could use in their lives. So how can you start watching for God?
Blatant Sightings
Sometimes, God’s love can be obvious. Still, you don’t want to miss it and not take notice. Watch for things like rainbows, starry nights and sunny days. Look for true love, new babies and friendship. Even though things like this are obvious displays of God’s love, they are often taken for granted. Be aware of your surroundings, notice the blessings and point them out to others. Just because something is obvious doesn’t mean it should be overlooked.
Silver Lining
Did you know God could be found in even the worst of situations? He can! There’s an old expression that states, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” That silver lining in the storm clouds is God. God is a kind word in the midst of grief. God is a smile in the midst of tears. God is the survivors and relief workers in a natural disaster. God is comfort in sadness. God is a glimmer of hope when all seems lost. If you look hard enough, you can find a bit of God even in the direst of situations.
Team Up
Team up with your church, friends or family to share God sightings. You could set up a bulletin board at your church to post them. If your group is part of a social networking website, you can create an online group to share. You could even set up a weekly or monthly gathering to make your sightings known. The accountability that comes with group projects will help you to remember to watch for God.
Write it Down
Keep some sort of journal or notebook to keep track of God sightings. You could even make a list on your computer. However you choose to track them, it’s a great help in watching for God. You will be shocked when you sit down to write out just how many places you can find God. Plus, it gives you something to look at when you need a boost.
Be a God Sighting
You can be a God sighting for others. Any time you give a compliment, share a smile or help out a friend in need, you are a manifestation of God’s love. Make an extra effort to be kind, and I’ll bet you notice that others show you more kindness in return. This will lead to even more God sightings! Trying to show God’s love through your behavior toward others can only lead to good things.
God is everywhere in our world, even if that’s sometimes hard to see. There are displays of God’s love all over in our everyday lives. Open your eyes and watch for God!