Nature at Work

Readings: Exodus 13:17-22; I Peter 3:17-22; Matthew 27:57-66

Today was one of those "gift" days--unseasonably warmer and blue skies full of sunshine--wonderfully welcomed during the dreary days of the winter season.  All one needed to do to enjoy the blessings of God's beautiful works of nature was to walk outside and take it all in. Needless to say, I'm guessing many of us did that. To be a part of nature is to never tire of its many wonders.

All throughout the Bible, God has used nature itself to aid, defend, or protect his followers. In Exodus as Moses was leading the people away from Egypt, God instructed that there would be a pillar of cloud to lead them during each day and a pillar of fire to lead them each night. On the darkest of nights, when faith was waning, think of the inspiration of merely looking up and seeing the comfort of the flames never leaving, never weakening.

In I Peter, it is the miracle of water that we see as a saving grace. We all know that our bodies desperately need water internally for survival. We also need water externally to protect us from disease. Additionally, we need the power of the water to save us from missing eternity. "And the water symbolized baptism that saves you also--not the removal of dirt from the body, but the pledge of a good conscience toward God" (v.21). Whether we are sprinkled or submerged, when the cross is placed on our foreheads with water to show to the world that we are sealed with the mark of God, a miracle has taken place in our lives.

And finally, in Matthew, we are shown the power of Christ when we read of the magnificent stone that was used to close the tomb in which Christ's body was lain after the crucifixion. The sheer weight of the huge stone that was rolled in front of the opening would have been more than enough to keep mere mortals at bay.  The chief priests, ever skeptical and still filled with hatred, convinced Pilot to have guards posted and also to have the massive stone sealed. How they marveled later that none of these forces could keep the now-risen Savior imprisoned. What they overlooked was the fact that nature will also work in beautiful concert with God and through Christ.

So, the next beautiful day that finds you wanting to just set down whatever you're doing to head outdoors to feel the breeze and feel the sun--be sure to enjoy it.  Or, if a star-filled sky at night with a magnificent moon beckons you outside for a relaxing look--be sure to take the time. And remember how nature has been used to protect us, guard us, and present us with the blessings and gifts of its wonders. Thanks be to God.

Peace be with you.