Creator of the heavens

To the ancient world the created universe consisted of a vast star-studded dome, an earth beneath flourishing with life and an ocean which also teemed with life in its mysterious depths. For the people of Israel, the idea that the one who created this impressive universe would choose to be 'their God' and take an active interest in their welfare led them to wonder and to worship.

We have a much better understanding of the nature of the universe than they did. The earth is more complex and astounding than anyone can understand. Strange creatures inhabit the sea depths in pitch blackness and under tremendous pressure. And as for the sky above us - the far reaches of space are unimaginably vast. All the stars we see are only a local cluster. The size of our solar system is minuscule compared with the galaxy around us - let alone the millions of other bigger and brighter galaxies scattered across creation.

So we ought to be struck dumb with awe that the creator of all this has not only taken an interest in the human race, but came and lived among us. There are not enough exclamation marks to do justice to the wonder of it...