With the arrival of spring and the changing of seasons, we begin to see warmer temperatures and generally more favorable weather. With rising temperatures, many experience an increased desire to be outside enjoying the beauty of nature.
Through nature, which is experienced firsthand here in Pagosa Springs, we often feel a tugging on our soul and heart. It is times like these that our inner senses discern the truth that there is something (and someone) more than what is visible to the human eye.
This “nudging” is a gentle reminder that our soul seeks and requires more than the physical world can offer. And while nature gives us a glimpse at the joy, nature is not the source of everlasting joy.
When taking in the beauty of our natural surroundings, our hearts should point toward the Divine Creator. By setting aside our selfish wants, we will experience both God and nature with an indescribable awe.
He stands in front of us as towering mountain peaks. We hear Him in the breeze that goes through the trees and the gentle burble of a stream. We delight in Him in the wildflowers and grasses of a meadow on a warm afternoon.
The Bible speaks to the evidence of God when we look at the natural world. Romans 1:20 reminds us, “Ever since the creation of the world His invisible nature namely, His eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made.”
Psalm 19:1 echoes the same sentiment in proclaiming God’s “handiwork.”
When we experience the natural world, whether it be while hiking, enjoying an afternoon drive or simply looking out the window, our souls are moved by God’s presence and His invitation to share in His goodness.
But, is it enough to simply “acknowledge” God’s existence? The answer is an honest and plain — no.
God wants more for us. He wants a personal relationship with us.
While the admiration of a beautiful vista is for some the first exposure to the Creator, acknowledging and being aware of God through nature alone will not satisfy the questing of our souls. Only a relationship with God will.
And how do we enter a personal relationship with God? By attending His church, participating in the liturgy and taking in the love of Christ through the Eucharist. For it is through God’s beloved spouse, the church, that the members of His family come together to worship Him as the Creator of heaven and earth.
As adopted children of God through baptism, by stepping out of nature and into His church every Sunday, we outwardly express our desire for a personal relationship with Him and set aside our wants to thank Him for the countless blessings He has awarded us, including all that awaits us in nature.
Nature is a testament to God’s glory and the sacrifice of his Son, Jesus Christ. It is essential, however, that we take heed of God’s calling. We should not be content to leave ourselves in a one-sided relationship of acknowledgment versus participation.
With spring upon us, the seeds of God’s handiwork are coming into full splendor. Yes, nature is God’s gift to be explored, but sitting in nature cannot take the place of the personal relationship with Him that is founded within His church.
As our desire to be outside enjoying the beauty of God’s creation intensifies, let us not forget the importance of planting our roots in the fertile soil found through God alone.
This column may include both fiction and nonfiction, and views expressed do not necessarily represent those of The SUN. Submissions can be sent to editor@pagosasun.com.
