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“With many similar parables, Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could understand.” Mark 4:33 (NIV)

I’ve never had an eye for a great picture – in fact, I’m usually the last person asked to capture those special moments. My snapshots typically miss the mark on so many levels. My vacation pictures have more stray ground shots than the beauty of a sunrise. So thankful for friends who capture those memories for me.

While I’m totally okay with my lack of snapshot ability, I love the way God gives me picture-perfect moments of deep truths about Him and His love. There’s absolutely no substitute for personal teachable moments when God uses the normal day to day visuals to show me more of Him, His grace, truth and love.

What’s God’s snapshot look like? Well, to be honest, it’s really hard to put into words. Why? Because each of us are surrounded by everyday moments ready to teach us more about our Creator God and how He longs for us to interact with Him. But it takes an intentional focus to zero in on the lessons unfolding right before our eyes. It requires a lessening of distractions and a quieting of our inner spirit. Where our focus lands could be the perfect lesson worth anchoring our souls to and it could be just the right one to share with others.

As a writer, God beautifully shares these snapshots with me. As a mom, I loved teachable moments when I could explain life principles to my son. Visual illustrations driving home a key aspect of how we are to live out our faith every day. By asking God to show us the story within, we glimpse Biblical principles in a way we never imagined before.

Now, these snapshots aren’t a revolutionary new spin. Jesus used parables (word pictures) to teach His followers, skeptics and even us today. The word “parable” comes from the Greek word “parabolē,” which means “comparison” or “illustration.” Parables typically involve everyday situations and people, making them relatable to a wide audience. By using parables, Jesus enriched the understanding of Biblical teachings and transformed the spiritual journey of his audience. These beautiful illustrations made people think more deeply and glean the moral perspective of the story. The nonvisible became visible as the parable unfolded.

So where’s your gaze these days? Are you looking for God’s snapshots in your everyday life? What pivotal truth catches your focus and invites you to understand Him on a whole new level? How can you use those moments to shed light on someone else’s perspective of God’s amazing love, grace and truth?

“Father, we are truly blessed! Praising You for all those snapshots and parables You use to transform us from the inside out.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life