Control

I remember visiting an art museum and passing a contemporary sculpture on the way in. I enjoy all kinds of art, but I admit I just don’t always get contemporary sculptures. Passing it again on the way out, I heard whale sounds coming from it. In fact the last line explaining the artist’s message said,

“With its whale songs, the sculpture also brings to mind Moby Dick, the great white whale that signifies humanity’s obsession with controlling forces larger than itself, whether in the context of war or the struggle with nature.”

Now that I get.

There is no force greater than our God. Humans will often try to grab the reins rather than bow the knee in obedience and thanksgiving. From our individual lives, families, churches, governments, etc. – every time humans grab the reins, we make a mess.

It was eerie to hear those whale sounds as if they were trapped inside the sculpture. When we try to control, rather than submit to the wondrous rule of the King of kings, we land ourselves into bondage. Rather than living in the wondrous freedom that glorifies Him, we are confined to a lesser way. Submitting to the wise counsel of God puts the spotlight on Him and keeps us free.

So next time we’re tempted to take control, let’s give thanks instead as we see in Revelation 11:17,

“saying:

‘We give You thanks, O Lord God Almighty,

The One who is and who was and who is to come,

Because You have taken Your great power and reigned.’”