In the attached photo from Friday evening, cirrus lightly veils the moon. Skies meteorologists predicted would be clear delivered thin clouds.
As James describes it, our life is a mist (ἀτμὶς = atmis) that appears for a little time and then vanishes. In moments of humility, we know our gossamer barely shades what appears the permanence of heaven and earth. Isaiah magnifies that contrast exponentially: “Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look at the earth beneath; for the heavens vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment, and they who dwell in it will die in like manner…”
Yet error concludes creation unimportant, our lives pale bleakness. Ironically, from eternity God declares transient creation good, and gives dominion to its even briefer occupants, then commands them to care not about what they see, but what they don’t. Isaiah continues: “…but my salvation will be forever, and my righteousness will never be dismayed.” Above the ancient world God places short-lived men and women. Beyond everything seen he puts invisible faith; above everything held, our hope in him to make things right.
This week, may our mist frame for others the eternal truth of God.