God’s Masterpiece

Jeff stepped out of his car into the crisp, cold air. It had been in the teens during the night, and the weather felt as cold as the relationships in his home. Things had gotten tense between his parents, and he needed time to think.

Jeff pulled on his gloves and zipped up his coat as he headed for the muddy hiking trail. Ever since his dad had taken him on these trails when he was young, Jeff had always processed hard things by hiking.

Drifts of snow mixed with melting runoff on the trail made hiking slow. But Jeff wasn’t in a hurry. He embraced the challenge and pushed through the remnants of winter to climb the hill.

Working his way toward the top, Jeff’s muscles relaxed. The familiar climb brought rest to his mind. With every step, he was reminded that Jesus was with him through this. The quiet helped him remember.

As he rounded the second bend, he glanced out and saw the bluish-white valley stretching out to the amber horizon. The majesty of the landscape motivated him to continue. *God is in control,* he thought.

Within thirty minutes, Jeff was standing at the top of the hill. Shorter hills encircled this side of the hill, and Jeff gazed out as the sun climbed higher, reflecting on the snowy mounds.

Suddenly, the hills were studded with brightly shining diamonds. Bright golden light jumped and danced off the crystalline snow. The brilliance was stunning.

Jeff breathed deeply and basked in God’s morning masterpiece. • Erin Downs

• Creation reminds us of God’s goodness and power. What part of God’s creation are you thankful for today?

• Have you ever read the Bible and prayed while outside? Was it something you would do again? Why or why not?

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Psalm 19:1 (NLT)

Read Verses:

Psalm 19:1-6