In these verses, The reader or listener is invited to experience God and God’s personal connection to us.It is shared that God has searched, and knows God’s creation. We also are brought into the message that God is knowing of all of our ways, and we are never without God.God creates great diversity within God’s Creation. I believe that God celebrates this great diversity, including the unique experience of living with disabilities. As God both searches and knows each of us, perhaps there is a connection to the various ways in which people with disabilities search and know ourselves. As well, to be express ourselves, find solutions and accessibility, and to use our unique gifts in all areas of life: recreation, work, volunteering, ongoing learning, advocacy and spiritual development.
The United Church of Christ has a motto. God is still speaking. I could interpret this as God is communicating with all of God’s Creation.And I do believe that it is true. However, some may experience communication with God in a different sensory way, based on ability or learning style. The words of a song, colors and patterns in a painting, taste of a meal, touch from a loved one whether human or animal, smell of the morning breeze. Any of these could communicate in a different way and in the stillness of a moment, be a connection to our still speaking God
As the person experiencing Psalm 139 verse 1 through 12 and 23 through 24, what sensory experiences with God has been experienced by you? How is this reflective of various folks including those living with disabilities? Feel welcome to share in the comments section so we might engage!
Steph Niemela, MID, ordination pending call, Michigan Conference