Just CrossPoint - A View from the Back Row

Isaiah 57:15 - For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. 

I like the view from the back row.  When I go to the movies, for example, I sit as far to the back as possible.  From the back I can see the entire screen and, hopefully, not miss the action that takes place along the edges.  Kids tend to want to sit way down, preferably the front row, when they go the cinema.  They like being up close, watching their favorite stars become literally larger than life on the silver screen. 

From my spot in the back row I can catch the sometimes important events that take place in the background.  Those who sit up close tend to miss out because their focus is primarily on what is taking place directly before them.  I believe the same can be said about plays, sporting events, or any other activity during which the spectator sits and watches it unfold.  Depending on where we sit our perception of the event is based on our proximity. 

I think of the Lord as sitting in both the front and back rows simultaneously.  He sits up front so He can see each of us up close and personal.  He is a part of our lives and the intimacy of standing next to us can’t be denied.  In our moment of need He is there to catch us if we fall, place an encouraging arm around our shoulders when we are down, or pat us on the back if we do something good.  At the same time, He sits in the back row, seeing everything that is happening, all the time.  Actually, not only is He with us every moment, He exists outside of time and space, able to see the beginning, the middle and the end of the story. 

This little word picture may not do Him justice, but hopefully it helps illustrate in some way the awesomeness of our Creator.  Not only does God see all the “action” as it is taking place, even along the edges of our lives, He is right there beside us, keeping watch over us and sharing each and every moment as they pass.  If we can’t take comfort in knowing that the Lord is both a watchful spectator and an active participant in our lives then I don’t know what will soothe our souls when we are troubled. 

Do you prefer to “see it all” from the back row, or do you like being right there, down front and next to the action?  They are both good places to sit.  Unfortunately, as humans, we can only pick one place or the other to sit.  God, however, can and is in both places at all times.  I am thankful for that.  It is comforting to know He is close by and, at the same time, is keeping watch on everything that is going on.  I like that.  I like that very much!