Creation Speaks

Don heads back to school this week along with many other teachers and students across the nation. Summer is slipping away all too quickly, isn’t it? Before it’s completely gone, I’d like to share a piece I wrote several years ago that has appeared in a couple of different publications. I’ve updated and tweaked it in places, and I hope it inspires you to savor the remaining days of summer.

Creation Speaks

Have you ever noticed how creative works help us understand their creators? Consider God. His creations allow us to see Him more clearly if we turn our thoughts to Him as we enjoy the beauty and wonder of the world around us.

My family and I have often gone to the mountains for vacation. While there, it is impossible for me to not think of God. Their grandeur and beauty are so magnificent that only He could have created them. Their very peaks seem to point to Him.

One summer while hiking with my family, two very different characteristics of the mountains impressed me as never before. The gentle, soothing beauty of the alpine meadow found above tree line amazed me. Brilliant, delicate wildflowers unique to this particular environment decorated the meadow, while remaining snow fields and a serene mountain lake completed the peaceful scene. As we looked behind us from an elevation of 14,000 feet, the view was breathtaking. The mountains in all their majesty refreshed my spirit, and I rejoiced in God my Creator.

The very same day we enjoyed these tranquil surroundings, we also experienced the strength and sometimes dangerous power the mountains hold. We viewed mighty, rushing streams, dangerous drop-offs, and densely forested areas that one could easily get lost in if he ventured off the steep and rocky trail. The climb at this altitude soon took its toll on our bodies.

As we reached the peak, we noticed dark storm clouds moving in rapidly, and the wind suddenly picked up in intensity. The peaceful feelings we enjoyed earlier turned into an adrenaline rush that sent us racing down the trail. Fear of getting caught in rain, lightning, hail, or fog kept us watching the skies and moving as quickly as we could. The mighty mountains had our respect.

After reaching safety, I later reflected back on our experience. I realized how much God is like the mountains. He is a gentle Heavenly Father who provides His children with peace, beauty, and refreshment, but He is also an awesome, powerful God who is to be worshipped and respected. It’s easy at times to lose sight of all that God is, but He refreshed my understanding on that summer day when peace met power on a mountain top.

Do you need a fresh touch from God? The next time you’re out enjoying our beautiful world, turn your thoughts to Him and let creation speak to you.

“The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard.” Psalm 19:1-3

*Flickr photo by Rutger Tuller, Creative Commons License

Comments

  1. “When peace met power . . .” that is a great line. And so true – a description of Jesus Christ, isn’t it?

    I feel overwhelmed when I look at two of God’s creations who live under my roof – my two children. How can anyone who is a parent deny God? Or, like you said, how can anyone who has viewed a sunset or a flowing stream deny Him? His creation calls out His glory.

    Beautiful post, Cheryl.

  2. Hello,
    I came upon your sight and wow am I glad I did. Your writings are wonderful. I loved when you said how the mountains peeks seem like they were stretching up to God. I felt my self stretching my neck up like I was looking for that peek, but yet I did as I read on.
    Thank You, going back to read more of your posts, I will be back, looking forward to more of your posts.
    Have a Blessed week
    Sharon

  3. Renae, thanks for pointing out a particular line you liked. You know how writers like specific feedback, don’t you?! :) God is so good to give those words that are just right, isn’t He? And thanks for sharing the thought about children and parents — what a perfect example.

    Sharon, welcome to my blog! I’m so glad you enjoyed your visit. And yes, please come back anytime!

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