Consider the word wonder in this passage from Deuteronomy:
The LORD brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with a terrifying display of power, and with signs and wonders; and he brought us into this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey. -Deuteronomy 26:8-9 

It seems that we live in a culture that is not easily impressed. We are inundated with so much information and sensory experiences that we may be numb to experiences of awe and wonder. Do we minimize feeling awe and wonder out of pressure to know it all? Or a fear of feeling small? Am I too busy?
 
We each have our own images and associations with the word wonder, informed by our life experiences and our hopes. Today, as you read these verses from Deuteronomy and the fulfilled promise that God would lead Israel from being a wandering people to being a people with a home and a plentiful land on which to live.
 
As we experience this forty day season it is a time to reflect on one's journey of faith, to examine our relationships, and to become a part of the story of Jesus' journey to Jerusalem and the cross. By observing this season, we are invited to step out of regular time (school...jobs...activities...) and into God's time for awhile. We are called to examine our lives and repent or gain a new perspective or path forward. We are also challenged to be open to experiences of being in awe or wonder.
 
As we consider the word wonder and its meaning for us let's also remember those who are still waiting. Waiting to experience signs and wonders and land that is theirs.

Prayer for Today

Gracious God, you know the tests and trials we face. Walk with us through this wilderness. Come to us with ministers of healing and visit us with messengers of hope,
so that we may return to you in faith, believing the good news of the gospel. In Christ's Name, Amen.