In the homes of England there is an endless variety of stunning glass windows. The entry halls, back doors and garage doors often have panels of “privacy glass” made blurry by patterns an ice skater might have etched with her blades. These are not colored or stained glass but clear panes into which designs have been “drawn”. The array is limitless, each one calling to come close and appreciate its unique beauty.

Despite the fact that we had to capture a massive bumble bee yesterday after he slipped through an open window, generally people in North England don’t need screens. The windows are big, to let in an abundance of natural light in this country famous for its cloudy days, and my admiration knows no bounds.

British etched glass is double-paned, and often the windows are without curtains. After all, no one can clearly see through a bumpy piece of glass. The bathrooms, especially, have gorgeous windows. Since we’ve had a week full of sunshine, the splendor of the patterns when filled with light coming through has absolutely mesmerized me.

Meant to discourage people from looking in, the wavy glass is effective. It can, however, be an annoyance for the same reason. If you’re expecting a friend and can see someone standing beyond the glass but can’t quite identify who it is, it’s a little unnerving.

Sometimes I read Scripture the same way I look through the patterned glass, ending up with a wiggly or blurred comprehension. It’s easy to grasp the general idea of the verses but difficult to see the deeper meaning on the second, third or fourth level. My heart longs to get better at that. I’m continually asking the Lord to help me, and once in a while he opens my understanding to really “get it.” When that happens, it’s one of life’s paramount experiences.

Some of the first sentences we’ll speak in heaven will probably be, “Ohhh. I see it now. It’s so clear. Of course!”

People we know who’ve already died and beat us to heaven are privileged to know much more than we do. Nate is in that crowd, and I’m thankful for his increased clarity. As for the rest of us, I’m sure God has an important reason for tempering our understanding, allowing us only bits and pieces while we’re here on earth. We’ll see the logic of that, too, after we’re in glory.

In the mean time, just as I take pleasure in looking through the ripply glass windows of England, I’ll continue to enjoy studying Scripture and looking for the usually-but-not-always hidden meanings buried in God’s inspired words. More than likely, just a few of those is all I can bear to “see” for now.
“For all that is secret will eventually be brought into the open, and everything that is concealed will be brought to light and made known to all.” (Luke 8:17)