©Joy Dunlap https://joydunlap.com
I want to be a Wonder Woman.
Here’s what I know though…I could never fit into the “Wonder Woman” attire.
It’s way too small in fabric (seriously – look at that waist!) – and way too big in concept.
I do want to be a “Wonder” woman though…
One who finds myself daily in awe of the wonders found in God’s creation, in His grace and mercy, and in relationships with Him and others.
In a dormant flower that comes alive in spring or summer
In a waterfall cascading over a cliff
In a tragedy-filled life that finds hope
In a newborn’s first cry
In reconnections with friends from years ago
In the smiles of a proud graduate and parents
In the adoring eyes of a couple uniting their hearts in marriage
In the delight of running into a friend unexpectedly
In the joined hands of an elderly couple strolling on a sidewalk
In the gentle rain on a hot summer day
In a starlit sky sparkling like diamonds
In the falling of colorful leaves or fluffy white snowflakes
In the grandeur of majestic mountains
In the kindness of a stranger
In a servicemember’s welcome home
In a loved one’s healing
In prayers answered
In peace found
In the tears of a person releasing their past to the Lord
In the jubilation of a person first connecting with Christ
In God’s astounding response to a plea
In forgiveness found – and given
In a relationship restored
In a life renewed
God seeks to wow us with His wonders so we can see Him in them. His character. His strength. His power. His creativity.
We can miss the wonder around us though when we’re too busy juggling everything in life and trying to play hero to everyone. When we try to be Wonder Woman (or Wonder Man – for my male readers!) we can miss out on what’s happening around us – and in us. Why should we attempt to be the superhero in our lives when God is the one who is qualified – and we should let Him do that job?!
We don’t need to try to be the Wonder; we need to experience The Wonder.
The Wonder-Creator. The Wonder-Giver. The Wonder-Forgiver.
Moments of genuine amazement and awe can get overlooked when we become complacent. As we get older, sameness can settle in our lives…the same activities, the same religious rituals, the same conversations – so much so that we may overlook some gifts God puts in our path – like new friends, new experiences, new ways to serve. When we open our hearts and minds, we can more readily see how God reveals Himself anew to us.
In the Bible’s New Testament, the Greek word thaumazo (pronounced thou-mad-zo) is used more than 40 times. When I look at that pronunciation I can’t help but think “Thou made it so” or “God, only you made that happen.”
With a defined meaning of to wonder, marvel or admire, thaumazo is what the disciples experienced when Jesus calmed the storm.
The disciples went and woke him, saying, “Master, Master, we’re going to drown!”
He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. “Where is your faith?” he asked his disciples.
In fear and amazement they asked one another, “Who is this? He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey him.” Luke 8: 24-25 NIV
Have you ever called out to God and been wowed by His response?
When was a time you were amazed by an accomplishment that occurred in your life or someone else’s?
We’ve all heard conversations like “You won’t believe…,” “I saw the most amazing thing…,” or “I never would have imagined.” We may even have heard or said, “It was a miracle.”
Have you ever thought “Only God” could have done that?
What is our responsibility regarding wonder?
Praise God. Tell others. Remember.
How can we do this?
Consider these three ways:
- Tell someone this week – today even – about a wonder you’ve experienced in the past or this week – and give God the glory.
- I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart. I will tell of all your wonders. Psalm 9:1-2 NIV
- Explain to your children or grandchildren or a friend one or more of the wondrous miracles God did in ancient times; then share a wonder you’ve experienced.
- We will not hide them from their descendants; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done. Psalm 78:4 NIV
- Make a list or keep a journal of when and how you experienced God through wonder so you can be reminded of God’s faithfulness and His power, especially in times of difficulty and distress.
Why should we recall past wonders and tell others?
- Our experiences help others look for God’s hand in their lives as well as serve as a memory aid to us and them.
- Then they would put their trust in God and would not forget his deeds but would keep His commands. Psalm 78:7 NIV
- When we remember the power God has and how He has used it in the past, both in history and in our own lives, we worry less because we trust more.
- I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds. Psalm 77:11-12
When has God shown healing (physical or spiritual) to you or someone you love?
When was the last time you worried about something? Trusted God with a concern that seemed too big to be handled?
What occurred the last time you were wowed by God’s creation or His response?
They forgot what he had done, the wonders he had shown them. Psalm 78:11 NIV
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing Love and his wonderful deeds for men. Psalm 107:21 NIV
Remember…Life Is Better When It’s Full – Joy-full, Thank-full, Purpose-full and Friend-full! ™