Focus

Let yourself become open to God and the knowledge that comes from the Word. Ask God for peace at this time.

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Read

Psalm 19 (NRSV)

The heavens are telling the glory of God;
and the firmament proclaims his handiwork.
Day to day pours forth speech,
and night to night declares knowledge.
There is no speech, nor are there words;
their voice is not heard;
yet their voice goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.

In the heavens he has set a tent for the sun,
which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,
and like a strong man runs its course with joy.
Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them;
and nothing is hid from its heat.

The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul;
the decrees of the LORD are sure,
making wise the simple;
the precepts of the LORD are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the LORD is clear,
enlightening the eyes;
the fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever;
the ordinances of the LORD are true
and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey,
and drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
But who can detect their errors?
Clear me from hidden faults.
Keep back your servant also from the insolent;
do not let them have dominion over me.
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable to you,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.

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Reflect

One morning, on my back porch, as I busily prepared a report, I heard cheery chirping from a nearby tree. On a branch I noticed a story unfolding. Two birds attended to their little ones: one feeding and the other guarding. The chicks enjoyed their parents’ company. When the parents dutifully flew to find more food, the babies cautiously peeked over the edge of the nest, anxiously awaiting their return.

Nature reminds us of God’s creativity and care. From birds gently feeding their chicks, to their joyful chirps of thanks, to the diligent desire to feed and care for another, we are reminded of God’s creativity and thoughtfulness. In the busyness of our days we have a choice. Drawn away from our tasks and our screens, we have many opportunities to notice small things, and to offer thanks to a magnificent God.

It’s easy during camp weeks for our children to share about the wonders of God found in nature. In response to the question “Where did you see God today?” they will say anything from “lightning bugs,” to “mushrooms,” to “speedy chipmunks.” Today, may we be alert to the story the earth is proclaiming.

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Pray

God, you surround and uphold us. Nature reminds us of your creativity and care. Help us to have ears to hear. Give us eyes to see a glimpse of you today and every day. Amen.

Go with God.