Northern Lights II

When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers–the moon and the stars you set in place– what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? – Psalm 8:3-4 NLT

The heavens declare His righteousness, And all the peoples see His glory. … Light is sown for the righteous, And gladness for the upright in heart. – Psalm 97:6, 11

But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” – 1 Corinthians 2:9

The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. – Psalm 19:1 NASB95

It had been many years since the Northern Lights were seen as extensively as they were on May 10, 2024. The lights were even seen in parts of the southern hemisphere, including Australia, South America, and New Zealand (a phenomenon known as the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights). Fortunately for us here in the mountains, we had a clear night, and I was able to take the above photo from the backyard just a few feet from our home.

I wrote a bit about the technical aspects of Northern Lights in my first post about them (see Northern Lights I).

Interesting translation of Psalm 19 above – The heavens are telling of the glory of God; And their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.

By gazing on and pondering the heavens, the Lord is telling us we can understand some of His glory, as His work in creation is being declared and proclaimed in the skies above.

I often like to contemplate God as I look at the sky – whether it be a remarkable sunrise or sunset, the dark rumblings of a building thunderstorm in the mountains, a rainbow stretching across the expanses, or a starry night sky against a jet-black background. Or, as the above photo displays, His stunning handiwork in what we call the Northern Lights.

I know of folks, and have worked with folks, who never see God or His glory in any of it.

Never.

I find that rather tragic.

I hope you’ll take the time to ponder His work displayed in the heavens the next time you get a chance.

Keep looking up! And I hope you have a really great day.