Scripture:

John 1:14 (NIV)

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.

Seeing the Unseen

Some weeks ago, our Next Generation ministry organized a monthly children and young family gathering with the theme, "You've Been Egg'd," aiming to impart the true meaning of Easter to the children and the young parents.

Despite the rainy weather, we were blessed to have around 30 children and many parents in attendance,

supported by dedicated volunteers who assisted with various activities and stations, from kitchen duties to crafting sessions. For three hours, everyone engaged in teaching our children about the significance of the Cross and Easter, while also enjoying activities like baking pretzels, crafting Easter Bunny, Egg decoration, decorating wooden cross, making kites and more. As I participated in the cleanup afterward, I found myself reflecting deeply on what I saw that day.

When I initially approached this event from a work perspective, I was burdened with stress and plagued by numerous "what if" scenarios. However, as I witnessed the joy on the faces of the children and parents alike, it opened my eyes to see the unseen.

Just as the prophet Elijah beheld the pouring of rain, though initially only seeing a cloud as small as a man's hand amidst a devastating drought that gripped the entire nation (1 King 18:44),

and a young boy named David saw the promise of victory even though he stood before the towering enemy Goliath

(1 Samuel 17:45), I believe that the volunteers and I saw tall and beautiful trees within each child, bearing abundant fruit when we saw their smiles.

Sisters and brothers, John 1:14 reminds us that Jesus, the Word made flesh, dwelt among us to reveal the glory of our Heavenly Father, who is full of grace and truth.

In the midst of our challenging lives, filled with hopelessness and darkness, Jesus desired for His people to see and participate in that glory. This was why He willingly carried His own cross to Calvary Hill. Through His sacrificial love on the Cross, Jesus foresaw a new path to salvation for His people, transcending the crucifixion.

As Christians, we are blessed with eyes to see the unseen.

During this Holy Week, let us lift our eyes to heaven and behold the unseen. As we reflect on Jesus' crucifixion, let us look beyond our circumstances and see God's glory. Though challenges may surround us, let us fix our gaze on God who understands our situations and offers hope and promises of new beginnings.

Reflection Written by Rev. Sean Lee

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for sending your Son, Jesus Christ, to dwell among us, revealing your glory through His grace and truth. As we reflect on His sacrifice during this Holy Week, open our eyes to see beyond our circumstances and behold Your glory amidst the challenges we face. May we fix our gaze on You, knowing that You are with us in every situation, offering hope and new beginnings.

In Jesus's name, we pray, Amen.