I wrote “God’s Face” on September 24, 2007 (I keep a record of each poem I write). That morning I read Genesis 32:20. “So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, it is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.” I began to think of seeing God face to face. Do I have to wait until heaven? That was my inspiration for the poem and as I wrote I realized that God’s face is everywhere: light, wind, fire, rain, storm, and each sunrise and sunset. I can see His face everywhere.
A few years ago, as I was thinking about the poem, I prayed that God would reveal himself to me in a miraculous way; let me know that He sees me and cares for me. As I was driving home late that night on Slate Gap Road, a beautiful shooting star streaked across the dark sky right in front of me. I was overcome with a feeling of God’s presence! Could this small moment in time be just for me? I thank God for His Holy Spirit that is always with me, revealing Himself to me in every moment. I only need to search within to see Him.
On December 29, 2016, my birthday, I added another verse to “God’s Face.” That shooting star reminded me of the star that led the Magi to the Messiah on that special Christmas Day 2000 years ago.
God’s Face As I pray, Lord, let me see Visions of Your face. Reveal Your person unto me And fill that empty space. Let me see You as the Light That shines every day. Guide me as I walk with You And help me find my way. Let me see You as the Wind That blows through the trees. Show me Your mighty power That brings me to my knees. Let me see You as the Fire That warms and refines. May it purify my soul And show Your love divine. Let me see You as the Rain That falls on land and sea Bringing heaven’s rainbow Your promised majesty. Let me see You as the Storm That comes when skies are gray. Comfort and encourage me And in Your arms I’ll stay. Let me see You as the Star That shoots across the sky. Reminding me of Jesus And the searching Magi. As I look upon the dawn And have the earth in view I see Your face in everything Each one the image of You. So Jacob called the place Peniel, saying, “It is because I saw God face to face, and yet my life was spared.” Genesis 32:30