human beings that you care for them?" (Psa 8:4)
Today my family and I went for a Sunday drive down to Brown County State Park. It was a gloriously beautiful afternoon with temperatures in the upper 70's and low 80's. This unusual warm snap in the middle of March has brought revival to the plants, trees, and sidewalks. Trees are in bloom. Bushes are flowering. People are outside enjoying God's green earth.
But in the park where concrete is at a minimum, the trees remain asleep. We sat at the West Vista Overlook and saw miles of brown. Only a few pines and evergreens brought color. It was still beautiful, though. Nature is beautiful and inspires poetry, song, life and love.
We've been eating natural, the way Adam and Eve did with fruits and nuts and plants. I don't know if they cooked or used olive oil, but we are enjoying all natural foods as we seek to walk intimately with God, as did the first couple. This fast has made me feel alive and aware. The toxins are leaving me. My mind is awakening. My body is gaining energy. I am lighter and livelier.
As I set there noticing the contrast between the blue sky above and brown landscape below, I was taken in by the picturesque clouds. My daughter Erika is in a creative writing group at church. I told her, "now would be a good time to read a poem." She asked "which one?" "Anything having to do with nature," I replied. She mentioned she had one she had written for our family's first dog, long since gone. That wasn't going to add to the moment. I told her to look at the clouds. They are perfect like the kind you see in paintings. And on the spot she composed this little, but powerful poem.
by Erika Lynn Tyring
We, as creatures, cannot fathom God's creation
We feel we must compare it to things we know
We think these painted clouds belong on a canvas
But the world is God's canvas
And I am in His frame
The psalmist wrote of the majestic ways of our creator in Psalm 8. He wrote of the glory of the heavens with moon and stars. In the sight of such awe-inspiring beauty he wonders, "What are humans that God cares for us?" Why has God made us a little lower than angels and put us in charge of this planet, with its vast array of animal and plant life?
In another place the psalmist wonders at his own body. Humans are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psa 139:14) He is amazed at God's intimate knowledge of him. God sees all. God knows every word on his tongue even before he speaks. And yet... God cares. God cares. Even in the grave God is there.
A good, well chosen frame brings out the best in a work of art. The unframed painting is nice, but a frame makes it pop and draws out its content. God has His eyes on us. We are framed in Jesus Christ who brings out our best. Our Father God chooses to see us through Jesus and His love.
I walked the streets of Nashville and did a lot of praying as I saw ice cream shops and smelled fried chicken, steak and other treats. I wanted them. I considered just for today to break the fast and enjoy foods I have denied myself. The thought quickly left me as I prayed, "Lord, You are all I need."
I thanked God for the beauty of the earth and the joy of knowing His faithfulness. I interceded for a few friends and continued to enjoy the afternoon. I enjoyed the day, not simply for sunshine and vistas of natural beauty; but because, as Erika wrote, the unfathomable creator has us in His frame.
Dear Lord, How majestic are Your ways! Your hand on my life is too wonderful. Thank You. Keep me ever hungering for what You have to offer. Amen.
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