Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness over the land of Egypt, darkness which may even be felt.” So Moses stretched out his hand toward heaven, and there was thick darkness in all the land of Egypt three days. They did not see one another; nor did anyone rise from his place for three days. But all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings.
Exodus 10:21-23 NKJV
I tried to capture yesterday’s eclipse with the camera on my phone, but the photos didn’t show what my eyes were seeing. It was a little freaky. So, I put down my phone and just experienced the event. It was 76 degrees out during full sun. As the moon made its way across the sun, the wind picked up, and the temperature dropped. Shadows were eery, almost unreal in appearance. Crickets started chirping, and birds quieted. Darkness fell, and I stood in wonderment at this amazing gift.
I didn’t know what to expect with “totality,” but thought it may, for a few minutes, be total darkness, like what the Egyptians experienced during the ninth plague, “darkness which may even be felt” (Ex 10:21). It didn’t get that dark, but still, I felt it. Imagine living for three full days, in total, “thick” darkness, not even being able to see your hand in front of your face. A darkness so dense that people couldn’t even rise from their places. However, “all the chidren of Israel had light in their dwellings” (Ex 10:23b).
Experiencing a total eclipse is a rare experience and a blessing. I’ll share some articles below.
Father, I come before You today, awestruck at Your divine creation, which we call home. I’m so thankful for the opportunity to experience unique events that showcase Your handiwork. Father, I pray for the millions of people who witnessed yesterday’s eclipse that they may reflect on the experience and know that You are God, the Creator of heaven and earth. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
