“Do you realize there is going to be a solar eclipse while you are on the way to work tomorrow?’
I had not been paying attention to the news, so the question caught me by surprise. What kind of eclipse? When exactly was it going to happen?
This morning my phone chirped, flashing a message; “The eclipse has begun.”
It was amazing to see and experience that followed as I responded to the invitation. The surreal lighting, quietness of being part of a world that was in a perfect spectator’s seat yet seemingly ignored everything but the immediate, and dominating presence of the eclipse stopped me in my tracks.
As I watched the eclipse begin, I found myself enveloped by an awareness that we are all characters in a grand story that at times unfolds blatantly before my eyes. The story relentlessly went on, unaware of my attention or anyone else. It was as if we were invited but unless we decided to participate we were left untouched.
As I close my eyes, I vividly see the surreal light. I do not know how to describe if with any accuracy, but its touch continues to be with me.
The quietness from where I was observing was filled with awe and a sense of reverence. It was energizing. It was a great reminder that there is hope and peace all around us even when we cannot see or feel it.
Today is an open invitation to you and me to write a new story. The eclipse and a psalm remind me that I am a co-author in this story will be far bigger than we can imagine; “An extravaganza before God as he comes, as he comes to set everything right on earth, set everything right, treat everyone fair.” (Psalm 96.13) I have no idea what this story will be. I do know that in the greater story all is well. You and I have our roles. We also have the freedom to make it something great.
As the eclipse passed, a new story began.
