Yesterday, Kathy and I took a stroll at Campbell Valley Park in Langley. Although it was cool, cloudy, and drizzly, the walk was a refreshing blessing. We met a few people on the trail, but weekdays are always less busy than nice weekends.
Water levels were up quite a bit from the last time we visited, but not nearly to peak levels. As always, a few mallards were hanging around, primarily drakes. For whatever reason, the drakes outnumber the hens here by about 5 to 1 or more.
We enjoyed the company of a few squirrels, dozens of chickadees, some spotted towhees, and various sparrow and sparrow-type birds. The chickadees followed us, stopping when we did and often coming within a foot or less of us.
Chickadees are one of my favorite birds. They are cute and very friendly. Their song is lighthearted, and they always seem happy little birds. A chickadee always brings a smile to my face.
I always find my mind clearer after spending time in the woods. The woods calm my heart and spirit and allow me to focus. Often, when walking in the woods, hunting, or fishing, I feel God’s presence the most clearly.
That’s one reason many people end up worshipping nature. Their experience fools them into thinking that nature is God, a dangerous mistake.
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth. 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. So they are without excuse. For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonoring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever! Amen. Romans 1:18-25
God created everything around us for two reasons. Firstly, it testifies to His worthiness and power, giving Him glory. Secondly, it acts as an undeniable signpost that points humanity towards Him.
The world around us, the world of “nature,” is a gift to us and also a responsibility. God calls us to be stewards of it all. It’s made for our use, but careful use. Too often, we have exploited our home for short-sighted gain.
The natural world surrounds us. Enjoy it. Steward it well. Give glory to God.
Hallelu Yah / Praise God
Kevin
