Do we take time to notice things around us?
People, animals, creeks, trees, clouds, thunderstorms.
Okay, I might say thunderstorms are easy to notice and that of course I notice them. BECAUSE I run to the car, close windows or calm the frightenened children or dog. (choose the applicable ones in your life)
But do we really take notice. Actually stop, look, listen and pay attention to the storm, the clouds or the animal that appears? I miss it as anything but something to be avoided or dealt with.
Part of being a disciple of Jesus, I am convinced, is appreciating all that God has put around us. That includes people, wildlife, plants, the weather…the intricate relationships in it all. Back in my younger days, I was a zoo guide at the Toronto Zoo. I spent hours on my own watching the creatures and appreciating the plants that were nurtured and cared for there. I found God’s beauty so readily on display each time I visited there.
We’re on beautiful Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, Canada right now. It’s so pretty. Went to a quiet shore yesterday. A few people there but not many. It was down an unmarked gravel road with a ragged parking space and no big commercial enterprises. No souvenirs, no fast food, no signs telling you what to do or not do. It was quite natural and beautiful.
An eagle sat high above us on the rocks.
The waves lapped gently on the beach.
Clouds rolled in and far off we could hear thunder. The clouds grew darker, the thunder louder and lightning flashed. Yes, we ran for the car! At least I hobbled with my cane and injured knee. As I got to the car, the clouds burst — no other way to describe it. Huge full drops of rain pounded on us. It was amazing and frightening and awesome.
The kids trying for a picture of the eagle stayed out longer and were soaked.
It was amazing. And it was wonderful. God’s creation in all it’s splendour.
Wildlife, sand, rocks, wind, waves and the storm.
And it took my breath away. God, You are so amazing with all the works of Your hands!
The heavens proclaim the glory of God.
The skies display his craftsmanship.
Day after day they continue to speak;
night after night they make him known.
Psalm 19:1-2 NLT
The rain stopped as we drove away so after a couple of kilometres we drove up a high cliff overlooking the ocean and parked. We laughed at how wet we got, the kids ran and took pictures and we gloried in God’s wonders.
I’m glad we’re here and that I am noticing God in His creation. Sad I don’t do it more often at home. Prayerfully I will change that.
