Scarlette Jasper
CBF Field Personnel, Corbin, Ky.
Be still, and know that I am God.
– Psalm 46:10
The activities and spiritual practices that are life-giving to me at this time revolve around nature. I can get out and go hiking or camping and totally disconnect from my electronics. No cell phone, no computer, no radio, no TV, etc. I can just sit and listen to the sounds of God’s creation. I can hear the birds, frogs, crickets, mosquitoes, etc., making a joyful noise into the Lord. I love to be able to hear the ocean or the sound of water rushing over rocks in a nearby stream.
My favorite aspect of being out in nature is sitting by the campfire and listening to the stream or sitting by the lake and feeling the sun on my face and the breeze coming off the water. Those are the times when I feel most connected to God on a very individual and personal level. Those are the times when I can express my joy and revel in the beauty of the Earth that God has created.
Many people can connect with nature. For anyone in ministry, I often recommend taking a walk, planting flowers, listening to the birds, etc., as spiritual practice or a way to experience rest and find peace.
Pray, Practice, Ponder
Today ponder how time in nature brings rest and peace for you. If there is a particular activity you enjoy outside, can you make it a priority in the week ahead?