Seeing Beyond the Stars - by Meryl McKean

 

Do you remember the magic eye pictures so popular in the 90’s? The idea was to stare at a the pattern in a particular way until you are looking through. It’s not always easy and some find it impossible, but when you hit that spot of viewing there is that aha moment when suddenly a 3d image pops out of the chaos of the pattern.

This morning was a day off, it didn’t start well, I wasn’t feeling great about my writing. My week had been interrupted by unexpected but important things. Times I’d set aside to prepare a preach had been eaten into. I could feel my stress levels rising.  I decided to get my housework out of the way. I often get through my least favourite tasks by listening to an audio book. It was while I was listening that I was reminded of magic eye pictures. The author was talking about perspective. The way that when we look at magic eye pictures, we need to change the way we look at the pattern in order to see what is within. He reminded me that what ever my circumstances, however I am feeling, I can always find something to praise God about. The apostle Paul certainly was able to look beyond his prison chains and focus beyond.

I decided to have a go looking at a magic eye picture so I did a quick search and came up with a mass of stars along with some guidelines on how to see within. I followed them and yay – the mass of stars turned into a 3D picture of Saturn complete with rings. If you’d like to try here is the link
https://www.magiceye.com/faq-items/help-how-do-i-see-in-3d/

A change of perspective can make such a difference. We often see in the psalms an outpouring of sorrow, but then a shift – for example Psalm 3 v 1 - 4

Lord, how many are my foes!
    How many rise up against me!
² Many are saying of me,
    “God will not deliver him.”

³ But you, Lord, are a shield around me,
    my glory, the One who lifts my head high.
⁴ I call out to the Lord,
    and he answers me from his holy mountain.

After verse 2 the writer seems to stop, to consider, then to choose to shift his focus. Then to focus on truths that he knows. This was a timely reminder for me. I gave what I need to do to the Lord and turned my focus on him. As the day has progressed he has faithfully helped me to reach a more positive place. He has given me the time and inspiration I need as I’ve chosen to look beyond my circumstances.

 

Bio

Meryl McKean loves writing devotionals and poems and has had a few articles published over the years as well as using her writing in her work. Recently she was encouraged being placed 3rd in an ACW competition. She wants her writing to be a tool which helps others draw closer to God. She is married to Andy and lives in Bedford where she loves exploring the countryside with her camera in hand. Her day job as a member of her church staff leadership team is full of challenges and opportunities.