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The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands Psalm 19:1

A little girl was camping with her dad one evening and got to see a sight city-folk rarely get to witness. As the sky got pitch black, the stars were absolutely brilliant. The little girl looked up and said, "Daddy, if the bottom side of heaven looks this beautiful, what must the other side look like!"

Have you ever looked up at the night sky and felt overwhelmed by its beauty? There’s something breathtaking about a sky untouched by city lights. It’s a sight that stirs the soul, reminding us of how vast and magnificent God truly is.

But the little girl was right. If this world — this temporary, broken place — can still hold such beauty, imagine what awaits us in eternity! Our greatest moments of awe here on this earth are just the faintest glimpses of the glory to come.

When we marvel at a sunset, stand in awe of a mountain range, or feel the vastness of the ocean, we’re seeing evidences of the Creator’s handiwork. And yet, even the most stunning landscapes of earth pale in comparison to the beauty of heaven. Revelation 21:23 tells us that heaven doesn’t even need the sun or moon, because the glory of God himself gives it light.

But here’s the most amazing part: Heaven’s beauty isn’t just about golden streets or crystal-clear rivers. The greatest wonder of all is that we will be in the very presence of God. No more pain. No more sorrow. No more distance between us and our Savior. Just pure, unending joy in the fullness of his love.

So, the next time you look up at a starry night, take a moment to remember: If this is what the bottom side of heaven looks like, imagine what’s waiting on the other side!

Lord, your creation is breathtaking, and it fills my heart with wonder. Thank you for giving us glimpses of your glory in this world. I long for the day when I will see you face to face. Until then, let me shine your light here on this earth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

- alan smith