I get comfortable in my religion at times. Going to church, listening to sermons, singing with the congregation, reading Christian books and perusing my Bible all lend a familiarity to my faith. As a Christian minister I paddle my way around the pond of my persuasions.

But occasionally I read something that tips my canoe and reminds me that God exists less as a pond and more as a vast expanse stretching from horizon to horizon.

In a letter to a young pastor, Paul described God in heaven. I like how King James’ translators rendered this verse: Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

One on hand I speak casually of knowing God, but on the other God remains invisible, hidden in unapproachable light. Invisible refers not merely our physical sight, but to our understanding as well. So much of God’s motives and mindset remain hidden from us. We perceive only hints and shadows. Which is one reason the life and teaching of Jesus Christ form the center of our faith. Through him God in the flesh dwelt among us, and through him we enter into the fulness of the Father.

I love the hymn Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise, written by Scottish minister Walter Chalmers Smith in 1867. The first verse encapsulates Paul’s teaching: Immortal, invisible God only wise, in light inaccessible hid from our eyes. Most gracious, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, almighty victorious your great name we praise (here’s a beautiful rendition).

I believe God wants me to draw close to him, to feel the comfort of his presence. But I also realize that my ponds of faith are merely the surface of a bottomless ocean of God’s wisdom and grace.

1 Timothy 1:17 & 6:16

Photo from Finisterre, Spain