Reveal

“For creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God.” Romans 8:19

We didn’t know what we’d find in the county park, we just knew we hadn’t been there before. We drove in and found that it was entirely undeveloped except for the access road. There were no amenities, no parking lot. Leaving our car parked along the side of the road, we found the trailhead and took off.

The path, climbing up into the limestone bluff, was heavily wooded. We could catch glimpses of Lake Michigan to our right, the sun’s reflected rays dappling the trees. Without a map, we didn’t know what we were looking for; it found us. After maybe ten minutes, the trees broke and the the horizon broke through, revealed. It was beautiful. I’ll leave it at that. Nature supplies its own adjectives.

Walking back to the car, I was struck once more by the simple fact that nature is what it is supposed to be. God made this world and called it good. It is we who have gone so wrong.

We continue this week in Romans, and Paul speaks of how the creation waits for freedom from the bondage and decay we have inflicted upon it through our sin. Creation, this magnificent handiwork of God, isn’t waiting for a new vista to be revealed. Creation waits for the children of God to be revealed, for you and me to steward it as God always intended. With love, and reverence, and awe; not just stripping it for parts. Creation waits for us. God is calling.

Look for something beautiful today. Remember God made that thing you behold, that signet of divine craftsmanship. As a child of God, care for what God has made.

Be well, friends. You are loved.

Creating God, your Sprit still moves over the waters and fills our lives with the breath of life. Set us free from our sinful grip on this world and its riches. Inspire us to care for the beauty you have made. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Image: Greta atop limestone overlooking Lake Michigan, 7/12/2020.