Half Dome from North Dome, Yosemite National Park, California
Many of us who read my blog do so because we enjoy being out in the wilderness. Or if wilderness isn’t available, we’ll settle for a good walk or jog through a local park. I’ve been guilty of saying, “I’m exhausted; let’s go for a walk through the swamp!” The wilder places are a place I can recharge and rest, even if it means I’m physically walking while doing it.
Netul River Trail, Fort Clatsop, Oregon
Besides helping us rest and recharge, the wilderness can also be beautiful. The dripping of pine trees on a misty day; a little waterfall in a creek; rock formations soaring into the sky; mountains and cliffs and canyons – they all silently proclaim, day in, day out, that their Creator has made them well. And as they cry out their silent adoration, we look on them and are in awe of their beauty.
Teton reflections in String Lake, Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming
We know Who made the wilderness and the things in it. We, too, can bless and honor their Creator for His wonderful works.
Wildflowers on Gold Hill, Carson National Forest, New Mexico
But beyond all that, we know that we were made in the image of Him Who created the world. God made us in His very image – Genesis says, “So God created man in His own image, in the image and likeness of God He created him; male and female He created them” (1:27 AMP).
Hiking up Amphitheater Peak in the Flat Tops Wilderness, Colorado
Since God created the world and saw that “it was very good” (Genesis 1:31) and we are created in the very likeness of God (one translation says that we were created, “reflecting God’s nature/character”), it’s not shocking that we’re drawn to the things to God’s creations.
Sunrise on the Grandview Trail, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
It is our joy to go out and enjoy the things that God made for His pleasure (Revelation 4:11). It is our peace to recognize God in His creation and praise Him for it (Psalm 139:14). It is also our privilege to say, “You have done all things well” (Mark 7:37)
