Earlier this past month I had an opportunity to step out of the “rat race” and sit next to a tree in the sunshine. I noticed the trees beginning to bud, the birds gathering nesting material, the bugs making their reappearance; the sights, sounds, and smells of nature all testifying to the creative power of God. Last fall, Grace’s 4^th grade class took a walk to the park and the Holy Spirit used the occasion to sharpen her awareness. Here’s what she wrote when she returned:

The trees smell pine.

The parts of nature are near.

The soft moss on the trees; nature is here.

Spiders in their webs, waiting.

Birds in their nests, waiting.

Trees growing on.

Everything waiting…for what?

For everything to be quiet; big to thin,

loud to quiet.

God is near.

The parts of nature are quiet.

Paul tells us in Romans 1:19-20 that this testimony is one of the chief purposes of nature. In addition to supporting life, nature “points” to the Creator who established order and purpose in what made He made.  This Natural Knowledge is intended to kindle a desire in us to learn more about God.  Natural Knowledge leads us to seek what God has Revealed about Himself in Scripture and discover His love in Christ Jesus.

Listening that day next to the tree, I realized that “pointing” is one of our chief purposes, too. Daily we encounter others at work, school, in the marketplace, and in other places. Through the Fruits of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-23), present and pervasive in us, others we encounter may be led to ask, “Why?” “Why are you loving, joyful, peaceful, patient?”  What is it about you?” That is the question we wait for.  In that moment we can share, “It’s not about me. It’s about Jesus.  Let me tell you about Him…”

Nature has its purpose, so do we. Our Vision Statement directs us toward fulfilling this. I encourage each of you to be intentional and passionate “pointers.” There are people out there waiting and listening.

                           Pastor Mau