Scripture: Little children, keep yourselves from idols (1John 5:21 KJV).

Some years ago I heard an unforgettable story told by a newly assigned priest. He observed a woman who every afternoon knelt and wept before a lovely garden statue of Mary.

“She must be very devout,” he remarked to an older priest, who had served the church many years.

“Things are not as they seem,” was the reply. “You see, many years ago, when she was young and beautiful, the woman posed as model for the artist who sculpted that image of the Virgin.”

The younger priest’s eyes widened in startled comprehension. “Then she is actually worshipping herself,” he exclaimed.

A. W. Tozer, whose teachings continue to impact millions, warns that we should not try to picture God. “If we try and imagine what God is like, we end up constructing an idol in our minds—and an idol of the mind is as offensive to God as one made with our hands” (devotional, “Idols of the Mind,” Christian & Missionary Alliance).

Yet Jesus taught us to address God as “Father.” I cannot imagine His face, but I think of  the qualities of a perfect father—strength, love, forgiveness, goodness, and guidance.  I can feel His Presence and know that I am in His arms for eternity. It is enough.

Prayer: Father, I will never know You fully until someday in Heaven I see Your glorious face and realize how inadequate my imagination has been.  You are all powerful, yet You care about the smallest details of our lives.  How wonderful You are! I rest secure in Your great love. Amen.