Ahhh, Spring Break. We had several groups join us last week in the Wichita Mountains and I am thankful to have been a part of them. Thanks to the youth pastors from FBC Newalla and Harmony Baptist Church in Atoka, OK for bringing a couple of great groups of students along and being so open to experiencing God in the great outdoors. My favorite parts of the trips this week were the times of solitude,and the discussion around seeing God in specific things in nature. Sitting on a lookout point, far enough away from civilization that the only sounds you hear are the birds singing, the creek rippling by, and maybe a faint voice of someone singing during their time alone with God The atmosphere here just makes entering into worship more accessible sometimes. It makes me really clear my mind of the distractions that life in our busy world that constantly beg for my attention. Richard Foster says in Celebration of Discipline that we should set aside four times a year to get alone and prioritize our lives. I agree with him that this is vital to our pursuit of God and our pursuit of goals, but I think that there is so much more that can happen in isolating yourself, particularly in nature. We not only get the chance to see things more clearly, but it is essentially good for our spirit. Being in the fresh air, seeing the grandeur of themountains, and hearing the chorus of nature singing to God, is beautiful.
A youth pastor this weekend made the comment that the rock climbing and camping trip with Compass Wilderness was so much better than taking the youth to a amusement park. No kidding! It's a different, richer experience altogether! It was so good to be with people who really got it. We have this coming weekend off, which makes me kinda bummed. I enjoy sharing this experience with different people who maybe haven't taken the time to see God in the world he created for a while. Maybe they haven't ever. How long has it been for you? Come away with us...
Steven
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as for the seeing God in nature. while i was in bishop, ca a few years ago on a climbing trip. i looked up the ridge line to see this odd rock formation. upon closer inspection, it became more clear that it was in the shape of two hands together in a prayer position. i was taken back for a moment and i had to sit there and think about His greatness. He is wonderfull.
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