On Friday night we went to a fireworks display. Family was there and the show was great. There were a multitude of colors, shapes and sizes. I was amazed at each of the huge, exploding lights in the sky. I was in awe. Have you ever been mesmerized by a fireworks display, entranced by its beauty and power? As you gaze up at the sky, maybe more than a visual spectacle can be discovered. Could these short-lived moments point to something deeper, something spiritual? My biggest takeaway from the night wasn’t the grand finale. It was how in awe I am with God. Here are some things to meditate on and think about the next time you see fireworks in the sky.
God and Light
- I wondered about the explosive bursts of light in the night sky. Did they even compare to when God said “Let there be light” (Genesis 1:3)? I asked myself if He marveled at the light as I did?
- Jesus said “I am the light of the world…” (John 8:12)(NKJV). I thought about the dazzling light show. The vibrant colors and light of the fireworks serves as as a metaphor for the light of Christ breaking through the darkness of the world. It symbolizes the illumination of truth and hope that Christ brings into our world of sin and despair.
- We are called, not only “to be light” but to “Let your light so shine before men…” (Matthew 5:16) (NKJV). Like the fireworks, our light in Christ should shine through the darkness.
God and Power
- Fireworks show great power and brilliance. That doesn’t compare to the immeasurable power of God. Throughout Scripture, God’s power is discussed about His:
POWER OVER CREATION-nothing is too difficult for God(Psalm 24:1)
POWER TO STRENGTHEN-He gives strength to those who are weak (Isaiah 40:29)
POWER AND AUTHORITY-He upholds all creation by the power of His Word (Hebrews 1:3)
ALL POWER AND AUTHORITY-were given, by God, to Jesus (Matthew 28:18)
POWER IN CONTROL AND SOVEREIGNTY (supreme authority)-He does what He pleases (Psalm 115:3)
God and Fire
The fiery nature of fireworks can be a symbol of God’s presence.
- Exodus 3:2-6 God appeared in a burning bush when He came to Moses
- Exodus 13:21-22 God guided the Israelite’s with a pillar of fire as they walked through the desert at night
- Exodus 19:18 God descends on Mount Sinai in fire when He delivers the Ten Commandments to Moses
- Hebrews 12:29 “For God is a consuming fire.”
Other Thoughts
- Think about the temporary nature of fireworks. The show is a fleeting moment of beauty and excitement. Compare that to the temporary nature of earthly pleasures. These come and go with our emotions and circumstances. Now, compare that with the eternal, unchanging nature of God’s love and glory.
- Looking up at the fireworks can be a reminder to look up. Just as you look to the sky to watch the fireworks, be reminded to look up in faith towards God. Let the show be a moment to pause, look up, and focus on God’s presence in your life. Looking up symbolizes trust in God’s plan and His ability to bring beauty and peace to your life.
- Fireworks are an expression of joy and celebration. It sometimes means getting together with family and friends. The fireworks can act as a reminder to pause and give thanks to God for the blessings in your life. What do you have to be thankful for, not just this time of year but every day? Do you keep a gratitude journal, or thank Him for His blessings?
- We celebrate July 4th, Independence Day, with fireworks. It’s a symbol of freedom. They can also be a symbol of the freedom from sin and the new life that Jesus offers. Have you experienced the freedom and peace that Jesus offers?
- Fireworks stir up feelings of wonder, delight, and awe. Like the wonder and awe you experience when thinking about God’s creation or the power of His love. Those feelings of wonder, and awe remind us of our smallness. We are small compared to the vastness and power of God’s creation. This is a humbling experience and can bring about the humility God desires from us.
Fireworks relate to and symbolize God in many ways. He embodies elements of fireworks: light, power and fire. They show the immense power of bringing the universe into existence. Fireworks also remind people of the beauty God brings into our lives. The vibrancy of a fireworks show symbolizes the joy and splendor of a life lived out in faith. It reflects God’s love and goodness to the world. As you celebrate this Independence Day, think about God’s love with these ideas. Give God the thanks and glory for your life of freedom.
