For now we see through a glass, darkly, but then face to face: for now we know in part; but then shall I know even as I also am known. 1 Corinthians 13:12 KJV

After years of wondering, the question was answered today: I enjoy traveling by air. A lot, actually.

Not because of the thrill of takeoff, or the impressive view (and certainly not the confined space). Oh, I loved the exhilarating feel of lifting off the ground. And seeing a miniature Niagara falls far, far beneath us was incredible.

But what I love about flying is something I never realized would be part of the experience, and that is this: having a perspective from a higher vantage point.

The huge airport terminal that we were somewhat intimidated to navigate on the ground became increasingly smaller as we lifted high above it.

Niagara Falls, which have always inspired in me a sense of awe at God’s greatness, were tiny. I saw the size of the majestic falls in relation to how much bigger this Earth is… and caught a glimpse of an even greater God than I had previously comprehended. Our Creator is AWESOME!

But what stood out to me the most was the mountains. I hardly recognized them as mountains at first – those tiny pointed bumps down there? Really? I studied them in fascination for a few moments, and pondered the fact that I could see all sides of each mountain. Those big mountains… appeared so little.

And in that moment I felt God whisper to my heart, “That is how I see your mountains.”

Wow! Clarity! Don’t you love when the Spirit comes and turns everyday, earthly moments into holy encounters?!

I took another good long look out the window. This time I noticed that one side of each mountain was dark and shadowed, while the opposite side was brilliantly bathed in the rays of the late afternoon sun.

The vantage point from the sky stripped those mountains of any ability to appear large or intimidating. The blend of shadows and light created a beautiful scene.

“And this… is God’s perspective of my mountains.”

1 Corinthians 13:12 gained new meaning on that plane. Our earth bound viewpoint allows us to know only in part… flying higher allowed me to see more… but only when I share God’s vantage point in Heaven will I be able to comprehend His greatness.

For now, I am thankful to have my feet back on solid ground, and my heart is at peace, trusting the Mighty God Who sees every detail of my little mountains.

Keep on climbing, My child. I see light on the other side.