“For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead.”  Romans 1:20

Although we may not see it, God is always in control and at work in His Church.

Without getting deep into Augustinian interpretation of scriptures, I offer this analogy: 

                      

Every time I board an airplane as a passenger, I become a part of the “visible airline,” but I can see and sense the “invisible airline” on the flight deck.  I know the preparations that have been made.  I have studied the Book. 

As I feel the parking brake release, I know the airplane papers are in order and the airplane has been declared airworthy.  I know the checklists verbatim, and I can anticipate the pilot callouts and future events before they even happen.

I know the Captain is guarding the takeoff profile in case of trouble.  When we hit turbulence his thoughts are to vacate that turbulent altitude for a smoother flight level.  I know he is thinking “fasten seat belt” well before it is needed.  I know my safety is my Captain’s first thoughts.  I can feel the crosswind on approach, and I’m aware of a tailwind on landing.

As I sit in the cabin, I know I can endure the visible because my heart is with the invisible.

And God bless the flight attendants.  They are angels of mercy.  They are serving the visible while being prepared for the invisible.  They work in both arenas.  I know that they are more than capable of operating the emergency equipment and evacuating a smoke filled cabin.

Disgruntled passengers are among those who only see the visible.  They question delays.  They complain!   Some even want to leave the airplane. The experienced fliers know there is a time to be silent and patient.  They are content to know their fare is paid, their boarding pass scanned, and their destination ahead.

Such is the eternal church triumphant!  It is wonderful to trust the invisible church while waiting with the visible church.  It is here the deep secrets of God are discovered.

My spiritual encouragement comes from knowing fuel is always flowing to the engines, the cabin is continually being pressurized, and the flight path is being protected.  And what joy to know that we will find rest and safety when we evacuate this smoke filled world!

“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever.  Amen.” 1 Timothy 1:17
                      
Immortal, invisible, God only wise,
In light inaccessible hid from our eyes,
Most blessèd, most glorious, the Ancient of Days,
Almighty, victorious, Thy great Name we praise.
Unresting, unhasting, and silent as light,
Nor wanting, nor wasting, Thou rulest in might;
Thy justice, like mountains, high soaring above
Thy clouds, which are fountains of goodness and love.
To all, life Thou givest, to both great and small;
In all life Thou livest, the true life of all;
We blossom and flourish as leaves on the tree,
And wither and perish—but naught changeth Thee.
Great Father of glory, pure Father of light,
Thine angels adore Thee, all veiling their sight;
All laud we would render; O help us to see
’Tis only the splendor of light hideth Thee.

Lyrics by Walter C. Smith - 1867