Scripture: Genesis 1:1-2:3
Recently I was blessed enough to be able to accompany our church’s youth group on a mission trip to the island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia. In addition to the work we were doing, we had some chances to explore the island and soak in its beauty. Everywhere we went, I was fascinated with the things we saw! The mountains and waterfalls and outer islands were breathtaking, but the smaller things may have captivated me even more: the mangrove trees surrounding and protecting the islands, the freshwater eels swimming in the river, the enchanting calls of birds I’d never seen or heard before, the bright blue starfish resting gently in the clear water. Each new thing I saw filled me with joy and wonder.

It made me think back to when I first moved to Hawaii and I was as amazed with the natural beauty here. In fact, it made me a little sad – sad that I’ve lost that excitement. Of course it’s normal for us to adjust to our surroundings; otherwise we would never get anything done! Sometimes, though, I get so caught up in my habits and day-to-day life that I forget to lift my gaze and notice the brilliance of creation, teeming with life and energy all around me! Does this ever happen to you?

This week, I invite you to slow down with me and make time to be a nature-adoring person. I invite you to bring all of your senses to appreciate and enjoy the world our God has created.

“There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world that is not intended to make us rejoice.”
– John Calvin