Take a Hike!

This week, or if you can’t, this weekend, take a hike!

This is my request of you with your family.  It doesn’t have to be a very long one, or a very strenuous one.  But, it does need to qualify as a hike.  This means it needs to be on a dirt path, with a little bit of roughness to it.  There can’t really be cut grass or trimmed lawns around it.  Find a county or state park and take a hike!  Bring some snacks and water for everybody.

That’s my request.  And here’s why…When we are able to slow down and remove ourselves from distractions like phones, iPads, T.V.s, work, whatever it may be, we are actually able to take a breath and look around us.  We can actually take a few minutes to see the world around us, including each other.  Taking a hike is a great way to spend quality and quantitative time together.  And it’s a fantastic time to listen for the soft whisper of God in the breeze (1 Kings 19:12-13)

While out…try reflecting on the following passages of Scripture.  Invite everyone to share their thoughts on the passage as they look around them at Creation.

Genesis 1

Isaiah 65:17-25 (this is a passage concerning the future and the New Creation after Christ returns.  Of note, Creation will operate how God first created it to operate in Genesis 1)

Colossians 1:15-20 (note, in 1:19-20, Paul writes that because of Christ’s death and resurrection, not only are we saved and will live eternally, but all of Creation has been redeemed and reconciled to God)

Christ death and resurrection is hope for us because we now have our salvation secured in Him.  But, remember, Creation bears the burden of sin as well.  It is no longer “good” as God created it.  We see this in animals attacking one another, animals dying of disease, etc…but in the Easter story there is hope for Creation as well.  When Christ returns and calls the faithful into everlasting life, we have the joy of knowing we will eternally live in a renewed and restored Creation!  So enjoy it now, and just try to imagine how much better it will be on that Day.

Nature Deficit Disorder

No!  This is not an actual medical disorder.  But, it is a reference to a book titled, Last Child in the Woods, by Richard Louv.  This book is fantastic look at the fact that most children now days spend more time in doors, in front of technology, than they do out in God’s wonderful Creation.  Please note, Richard Louv does not say whether he is Christian or not, or even a believer in any god.

I don’t think society needs to necessarily go back to the good ole days of Andy and Opie walking down the dirt road to go do some fishing. I would prefer to do that, but I realize that everybody is not as inclined to such an idea.  Nor do I think the “golden days” were really any more “golden” than what we are currently experiencing.  I think circumstances have changed dramatically, but none the less, we are still living in God’s Creation as part of His Creation.

In his book, Louv begins by exploring the benefits of spending time in nature.  The mystery and exploration that occurs, the freedom one feels, the ease of life one might feel.  To be honest, these are all things I love about being out in creation.  I call to mind Psalm 98:1, “Sing to the Lord a new song, for He has done marvelous things; His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.”

That’s what I see when I go outside and experience the world that God designed and created with His hand and breath.  It leaves me in awe.  And that’s something I think society today is missing.  Most people don’t step outside and feel an awe, they either feel hot or cold, wet or dry and can’t wait to get back in the air-conditioned room they came from.

I would encourage you this week to take the time to step outside and be awed by God’s creation.  Take a deep breath, close your eyes, and just listen to all that is around you.  If you live in the middle of downtown, go to a park with trees and flowers and squirrels.  Just witness God’s creation with a sense of awe for what He’s created.

The rest of this week we will look at different ways to enjoy the outdoors, to be strengthened by God in your relationship to Him through these experiences, and even take a look at God’s own love for what He created.  For now, take a walk- let the air around you bring a sense of peace because God is with you.

Family Connection-April 22