The Pinwheel Galaxy
A Whisper of Childhood and Grace
Last night I spent the evening gazing at the Pinwheel Galaxy, and as I looked into the light of its radiant arms stretching outward, full and glittering with stars, it felt as though I was peering into a divine masterpiece. It is as though God Himself took a brush and painted the heavens with wonder, beckoning us to stop, reflect, and marvel. The swirling beauty of this galaxy reminds us of something so simple yet profound: the innocence, wonder, and joy of childhood.
As children, we saw the world through eyes untainted by cynicism. A pinwheel spinning in the breeze could captivate us for hours. Its endless rotations mirrored our endless imaginations, unbound and unafraid. Likewise, the Pinwheel Galaxy in all its grandeur calls us back to that sacred place within ourselves—the child within, the one God knit together with care and delight (Psalm 139:13-14).
But as adults, how often do we neglect that child? We burden ourselves with schedules, responsibilities, and the weight of the world. We suppress the playful, curious spirit that once delighted in the small joys God placed in creation. Yet, Jesus Himself said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3, NIV).
The Pinwheel Galaxy spins as a gentle reminder to reconnect with that part of ourselves. It urges us to pause and embrace childlike awe and wonder. It calls us to lay down our self-criticism and extend kindness to the little one still residing within us—a child longing for compassion, grace, and delight.
Being kind to the child within doesn’t mean shirking responsibilities; instead, it means giving ourselves permission to dream, to make mistakes, and to bask in God’s grace. It means treating ourselves with the same tenderness and encouragement we would offer to a young child learning to walk, trusting that our Heavenly Father delights in our journey, not just the destination.
Next time you look at the night sky and see the swirling majesty of the Pinwheel Galaxy, let it awaken your inner child. Let it remind you to nurture that spirit of wonder and joy. And as you do, allow that kindness to overflow—not just toward yourself but to those around you. For in loving the child within us, we are better equipped to love others as Jesus commanded.
Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for the beauty of Your creation, for galaxies that spin in a dance of awe and wonder. Teach us to care for the child within us—to be kind, curious, and full of joy. Help us see the world through the lens of Your grace, and let that grace inspire us to love ourselves and others deeply. Amen.
