Fireflies

Read Psalm 48:1-14

            Some experiences can’t be captured.

            When we visited our son and his family, they took us to see some fireflies at dusk. Did you know there are over 2ooo different kinds of fireflies? I didn’t before this trip. Anyway, we waited in a long line for a boat. My son ably discussed the arrangements in the native language so that the man rowing would take us right to the edge of the trees. I was proud of the way he handled himself, as only a mother can be. I didn’t as yet see any lights, but I trusted all those people knew what they had come to see.

            The ride was pleasant, my grandkids by my side. It was just dark enough for them to be a little scared, so they cuddled up to me. And then, as we approached the trees, the fireflies lit, all at once, then darkness. On and off. More like Christmas lights than nature. I’d never seen anything like it.

            The kind of fireflies I’m used to are independently random. One lights, then another, then another. The kids used to delight in trying to run and catch them, following the light of one, then the next to light up. But these fireflies came on and off all at the same time. It was truly an amazing sight. It’s impossible for me to completely describe it – and photos didn’t work.

            I sometimes feel the same way about God. I know He is exactly who He says He is in His Word. I love to contemplate His attributes, as I see them in each reading. And I experience His love, His forgiveness, His guidance, His closeness. But I can’t adequately explain Him. I try to put into words who He is, wanting so much to share my joy in having a relationship with the Almighty. But He is so much more than can ever be explained or contained by me.

            Some experiences just can’t be captured.