Held Together
Recently, I went on a hunting trip to the north Maine wilderness in search for black bear. This was a gift to me for my 50th (hard to believe) birthday. It is amazing how quickly that has come around, and it leaves me wondering how many more I will get to experience before God calls me home. I was not presented an opportunity of seeing a bear during my hunt, but I was able to experience the beauty of the change of seasons in the Maine forests. I can’t remember the last time I saw the beauty of fall foliage as it turns from green to deep red, brilliant orange and yellow. The colors are all the more intoxicating when placed against the backdrop of the clear, blue sky. I had many opportunities to ponder the amazing, creative ability of our God.
As I was returning to Portland to fly home, I took time to visit Portland’s lighthouse. It was breathtaking to observe the Atlantic Ocean as it crashed against the rocks of the Maine shoreline. At the same time, it was so peaceful to experience the cool, coastal wind against my skin while listening to rise and fall of the waves. I got lost in time as I considered the history presented around me while watching vessels navigate the waterways around them.
As life continues to fleetingly pass us by, are we stopping to observe the beauty and glory of our God on display all around us. Romans 1:20 reminds us that his attributes are visible all around us, even since the creation of the world. Colossians 1:16-17 remind us that that not only was Christ a participant in the creation, but he also is active in sustaining all things around us.
Romans 1:19-20 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.
A more sobering reminder I’ve had considering my half century mark on this planet concerns how I have labored for my King for the first portion of my life. I can see so many areas where I have failed, so many times I was derelict in my duties before my Master. It challenges me to be bolder, to be more committed, to be more obedient to His will in my life concerning all things.
Again, if we are so busy pursuing this life we don’t take time to notice the beauty around us, how much more sobering is the thought we don’t stop to make time to be the hands and feet of the God who saves our souls when that is the work that matters.
No matter how many years are left before us all, let us be found diligent in pursuing the will of our God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.