Faith Anchor: Restorative Moments
Scripture Moment: Psalm 23:1-3
The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.
Clockless Hours
We decided it would be a day to soak up the wonders of God's creation! And we did! The weather was slightly cool and breezy so jackets and ear coverings were the fashion of the day. The sky was a brilliant blue and autumn leaves still clung to many trees.
We hiked prepared pathways that led us upwards to a running waterfall, alongside a singing river, and encircled two gorgeous lakes, all of it nestled beneath the towering mountains of the Rocky Mountain National Park. We basked in unhurried, clockless hours immersed in the wonders of God's creation. It seemed with each step, His majesty was on display! We were in awe, and spontaneously paused often to soak it all in and talk about the wonders of the LORD'S majestic creation! It was marvelous. Those hours are indelibly etched into our souls. And to experience it with my beloved sister-friend, Cathy, made it a double blessing!
Awed in the Suburbs
It is not always feasible to enjoy clockless hours, time when we unshackle ourselves from a hectic schedule. Perhaps your season is demanding ... raising precious children, caring for aging parents, health concerns, relational trouble, a busy career or ministry. In the midst of it all, restorative moments are vital and necessary. What is not necessary is to drive hours away from home to immerse in God's presence (although it is wonderful.) For example, one late afternoon, my husband and I took our dog, Chloe, for a walk in our city park. We found an empty park bench and enjoyed sitting and gazing silently at the distant view of the mountains. As the sun set, we were captured by the creativity and glory of the LORD displayed in the rays of fading sunshine. Although it was not Rocky Mountain National Park, we were awed in the suburbs! Those moments restored our souls.
Let Us Pray ...
LORD GOD, You beckon us to "come away my beloved." You know that we dwell in human bodies that grow weary and that our life experiences may sap our energy and peace. Help us to say "yes" to your sacred invitation to be led into quiet resting places where You renew, revive, and rejuvenate us spirit, soul, and body. Cause us to experience restorative moments away from the norms, demands, and patterns of our lives. We trust You are with us in the suburbs, the valleys, the mountain tops, and alongside still waters. Amen
~Vicki~