Psalm 8:1, 3-4 (ESV): “O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory above the heavens.
When I look at your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars, which you have set in place,
what is man that you are mindful of him,
and the son of man that you care for him?”
This weekend, my husband Adam and I went for a hike in a state park, the “Trail of 10 Falls”. In about seven miles, there are 10 waterfalls ranging from 30-150 feet. The trail was damp from the mist of the waterfalls, and ferns and giant trees lined the path with beautiful blue, purple and yellow wildflowers growing up the steep canyon walls. We heard the small noises of vibrant forest life – dripping, buzzing and chirping blended with the rushing river to create a perfect symphony.
During our hike, I recognized something profound about our Creator God.
God didn’t have to make waterfalls – water could get from one place to another without such an adrenaline-creating, awe-inspiring display. Wildflowers also aren’t necessary for life – they simply add beauty and color to the wall of brown rocks and dirt.
Even Adam and I – our mutual enjoyment of a long hike and a nice meal, our laughter and inside jokes, dancing together at weddings or marveling at sunsets – all of the joys of a happy marriage and a contented life are a divine treat, a delightfully unnecessary love-note from a Heavenly Father who gives good gifts. (Matthew 7:11)
The last few months have been a hard season for us; many unknowns and emotional tolls have made us question God’s plan. Sometimes, we wonder if he still gives good gifts to us. But a weekend together and a walk in his Creation reminds us: we are his children and the Earth is full of wonder, surprise, beauty and majesty. He does indeed give good gifts: the taste of salt and pepper, the beauty of a waterfall, the laughter of your best friend, the simplicity of fresh air – it’s all a gift.
Psalm 19:1-3, (ESV): “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.”
No matter how much I may ache for prayers to be answered or circumstances to change, this much is true: we have a heavenly Father who is as creative as he is loving, who made our world with endless tastes, smells, sights and experiences for us to enjoy. He graciously gives us insights into his goodness: in the design of a wildflower, the rush of a waterfall or the understanding companionship of a spouse. (Romans 1:20)
James 7:11 (ESV) says, “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
What’s the gift you can praise God for today?