Look to the Stars

A number of years ago (it's a new phrase I've been using so I don't have to age myself!) I learned to sail. It wasn't on any old skiff either, rather a 42' monohull Dufor sailboat out of St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Peggy and I spent a week aboard with written tests every day and practical, actual sailing tests every afternoon. We sailed from USVI to the British Virgin Islands, one after another, found quiet coves for overnights, and even a few beach side local restaurants along the way. It was for us a once in a lifetime experience. At the end of our week, we had made friends with Nancy (our Captain), and the other students and discovered a true love of sailing. And we both earned our certificates in bareboat sailing (up to 50' vessels), which means we each qualify to charter without needing to hire a captain. (anyone need a captain for a sailing excursion? I'm your man!)

I discovered something though. This was just the first level of certification. There are add-ons that include Catamarans, Blue water sailing (where there is no land in sight, just using charts, compass, and GPS), and the one I'd really like to earn, Night Sailing, utlilizing a sextant and the stars.

"A sextant is an analog navigational instrument used to measure the angle between a celestial body (like the sun, moon, or stars) and the horizon. By combining these angle measurements with precise timekeeping, navigators can determine their exact latitude and longitude, making it a staple for celestial navigation." (per Davis Instruments)

Even big cruise ships with all their modern technology use a sextant not only as a backup, but as a check on their actual position and staying on course. 

What I find fascinating about this is the stars are still helping people find their way. 

The Magi found Jesus using the stars, they also found a safe way home using those same stars. 

The Creation (beyond Earth) was made with such order that we can trust it to help guide us every day (and night). Which means we can also trust the Creator for the guidance we need.

It's not that God is hidden among the cosmos just waiting for our "discovery", rather, the cosmos (all the heavens) is filled with the glory and the presence of God. Our peering into it might evoke awe, but also might provoke a profound sense of Emmanuel, God WITH us...

...and deliver a path forward for each of us in a variety of ways. 

I've never owned a boat of any size (and I don't think my Stand Up Paddle Board counts), but I look at them often. Maybe some day I'll get my big sailboat and my very own sextant so I can navigate where I need to go. Until then, I'll keep looking at the stars and trusting God to give me the guidance I need every day.

Peace ><>

Pastor Chris