REFLECT

“The whole earth is filled with awe at your wonders; where morning dawns, where evening fades, you call forth songs of joy.” -Psalm 65:8

“Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.” -Mary Oliver

“Look at everything always as though you were seeing it either for the first or last time: thus is your time on earth filled with glory.” -Betty Smith, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle; the other is as though everything is a miracle.” -Albert Einstein

ENGAGE

• After their release from jail, Peter and John go to church to Behold—to pray to and to praise God. What do you think of this response? What does it show about their sense of awe and wonder?

• When have you felt a deep sense of awe in God’s presence? Why does God want his people to live with a sense of awe?

• How often do you feel a sense of wonder or awe in your daily routine? What things make you feel that way?

• What do you wonder about the most when it comes to the Christian faith? Why?

• What keeps you from noticing God’s presence and power in everyday life? How might you become more attentive to the wonder-full presence of God in the world?

PRACTICE

• Pause & Notice – Take a few minutes each day to slow down and notice God’s presence in creation, Scripture, or answered prayer.

• Share Testimonies – Regularly tell others about how you’ve seen God move. Hearing stories builds awe in the community.

• Worship Intentionally – Engage in worship (singing, prayer, silence) with a heart ready to encounter God, not just go through motions.

• Expect God to Move – Raise your expectation and step into each day with faith that God is present and still works wonders among his people.

PRAY

Creator God, I praise you for this world. As we continue to learn more of the vastness of your cosmos and the smallest particles of each atom, I stand in awe that you created all things in a great harmonious design. And then to think that you made me and you placed me in a family and church families. That you know me and care about me. I am overwhelmed by your goodness! And then, that you, your Son not sparing, sent Jesus to die, I scarce can take it in! That on the cross, our burdens gladly bearing, he bled and died to take away our sin. How great are you, Lord God! Receive now my praise in concert with creation and saints and angels in heaven—all offered through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.