Today’s scripture: Romans 1:18-23 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Vivian Wyatt):
The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims [God’s] handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge. Psalms 19:1-2
One day, when I was visiting my mom in Virginia, I took a walk in the woods behind her house. Her property is beautiful with lots of maples, oaks and a small stream that we used to call the creek when I was growing up. There is very little underbrush, so walking is easy and my mind can wander. I can usually find tree frogs, lady slippers, the usual squirrels, rabbits and wild turkeys.
This day I was troubled about something; I forget now what it even was. But I do remember that I decided to go for a walk in the woods. Was I praying or even talking to God? Perhaps in the beginning; but the longer I walked the more at peace I became, until I was just marveling at the greatness of God. There is something about being quiet with nature that soothes my soul.
The canopy, fashioned by the trees, creates a sanctuary; the sounds of the birds tweeting and the squirrels chattering become hymns and I find a place of rest and solace. I sense the presence of God the Creator and I can let it (whatever “it” is) go.
I don’t know how God created; whether by scooping up clay and breathing life, speaking words, or by setting in motion some grand cosmic plan that is constantly expanding and changing. It is enough, for me, to know that God created. However, I do know that nature reveals to us God’s creative power and greatness. Whether in the beauty of a starlit night, or the Grand Tetons, or a flower, or the smile of a child, or a snow flake, the creation is shouting that there is something more. The sights and sound of nature awaken in us the idea of glory, beauty, and divine existence.
Thought for the day: For the beauty of the earth, for the beauty of the skies, for the love which from our birth over and around us lies, Lord of all, to thee we raise this our hymn of grateful praise. Where do you see God?
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.