God's Presence in Nature

"By taking a long and thoughtful look at what God has created, people have always been able to see what their eyes, as such, can't see: eternal power, for instance, and the mystery of His divine being." Romans 1:20 MSG

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." Galatians 6:9 NIV

 My heart has been dry, like many wells this summer. It has been a time where I had to trust in God's presence, despite not feeling it. I have felt a little like the parched plants on my deck, wilted and barely hanging on in the intensity of the heat. Yet when my heart cried out to God last week, as I walked on a beautiful road by myself, He heard my cry. I realized I have forgotten to take time for myself, for these alone moments are when I speak with Him. Though I may have forgotten Him for a time, He will never forget me.


Quiet conversation and soft tears accompanied me on my walk as I poured out my heart to Him about hurts and worries, things I know I can not solve but I can talk to Him about, and He will hold them close to His heart. After many months of feeling alone, he showed me His presence in a butterfly, carefully colored and disguised to blend into it's surroundings, but following along my path. "I have always been right here beside you, although you may not have noticed me", He said. "I am guiding you and walking with you every step of the way."


 Further along the beauty of my route, a few more tears and a few more heartfelt prayers said, an eagle caught my eye, as it sat in it's nest. It sat in stillness, taking in the beauty of it's surroundings, and He reminded me, "Take a few moments every day to be quiet with me. I will give you eagle's wings to fly on, and peace in your heart." My heart was thankful to feel God's presence as I hadn't in a while. Yet my burden was not quite lifted, as I continued to fret over things I can not control. Doesn't He hear my prayer, I thought? Why does an answer not come?


But prayer seemed to flow more freely and I continued my conversation with him the next day in the ruins of my old garden. He called to me, "Take a walk with me, I will quiet your heart." I stumbled into the ruins of my garden and was amazed. Amidst the tall weeds and old foliage, was a treasure of red gold: cups and cups of fragrant, sweet ripe raspberries. I had forgotten that I had planted some canes several years ago, and since then have not gardened. Imagine my delight when I found that the raspberries had somehow thrived, despite my neglect! I felt Him reminding me, that I have planted many seeds in my faith life as well. Some have been harvested, and others I may have forgotten or are not quite ready to harvest. But they will all bear fruit, in His time and His way. I have faith again that there may be a surprise abundant harvest for me, when I least expect it!