“I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search.” (Psalm 77:3-6 KJV)
Bill had been attending a weekend Leadership Conference in the Canadian Rockies, breaking occasionally for relaxation and sightseeing. The wilderness surrounding the motel was teeming with wildlife — bear, moose, elk, wolves and a variety of small furry animals. No surprise, it would take a book to list every wild creature that was seen there.
Morning and afternoon there were classes on everything from Pastoral Ethics to Financial Accountability and Family Life. One afternoon, in an attempt to stay awake, Bill went to the refreshment table for a cup of coffee. On returning to his seat, he snagged his left foot on a nearby chair and sprawled headlong, spilling his coffee everywhere.
As he hit the floor, Bill heard excited cries of “Yeow!” from a few who were hit by flying coffee and some laughter from those further from the accident. Everyone crowded around him grinning but concerned. “Are you alright?”
“Yes, ” he said with a red-faced grin, “Just my pride is a little sore.”
“Well, that’s better than a broken neck,” someone said. “You were fortunate to fall on that table and roll off, rather than full face on the floor.”
After dinner that evening, Bill had trouble falling asleep. Finally, after tossing and turning awhile, he got up and went out on the motel’s balcony. It was midnight, but the surrounding wilderness was lighted by a clear moon on fresh fallen snow. The mystery of the mountains suddenly seemed up close and personal, the wild landscape filled with a pristine majesty.
God filled the scene and invited Bill to commune with him. He had no trouble sleeping afterwards.
Dear Father, thank you for your creation and its beauty. Empower us to worship you in all your creation at all times. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today and remember God,