
The Invitation: While nursing a fever and sore throat, I stayed inside for over a week, just taking an occasional walk to the mailbox and a trip to the doctor’s. I began longing for time outdoors and decided to go into the yard and plop myself on the grass.
Laying down an old towel, I rested on my back, head in the shade and legs in the sun. I closed my eyes, was present in the moment, and something beautiful happened. The smell of the freshly cut grass, the warmth of the August sun on my legs, and the chirping of the birds filled my senses. I took it all in, noticing how much was available to me simply by lying on the grass.
Then a small yellow bird perched itself in the pine branches above me. Several others flew to and from the tree. In fact, the boughs were full of these lovely creatures. Why hadn’t I seen them before? Had they been there all along? I wondered how much of nature I miss simply because it is so simple. It requires me to pay attention. To notice. For God often speaks profoundly through His handiwork.
I paused and asked the Lord if there was something He wanted me to be aware of. “It’s simple,” came to mind, “see how nature all works together.” At that moment I realized that storms come and go, but just like the gift of the birds to refresh my soul, God makes provision for every need in the midst of all life brings our way..
Look at the birds of the air;
they do not sow or reap or store away in barns,
and yet your heavenly Father feeds them.
Are you not much more valuable than they?
–Matthew 6:26 (NIV)
Your Response: If you have the chance today, take a moment and go outside. Close your eyes and see what you notice. Then pray:
Lord, often I make things way too complicated and miss out on the simple things around me. Simple, beautiful things that display Your character. Is there anything You want me to be aware of right now, something I often miss? How do You want to use it to speak to me today?
Lord, remind me to take moments to be still. Use the simple things I’m around to help me be aware of Your beautifully multi-faceted nature and provision.