Begin with Reverence

This week the icy cathedral pillars of barren trees raised shimmering arms to the blue beyond. A heavy frost created a surreal world in the park across from the church I serve as pastor. I went to my home next door in between Sunday School and worship in order to get my camera and take photos while the sun broke through the clouds. The beauty of the natural world outside kept calling me and I made frequent glances outside to see the changing scene as brilliant light shone upon the frosted trees. I was filled with awe. This reminds me of a quote by Joseph Cornell:

If we want to develop an attitude of reverence for life, we need to begin with awareness, which in turn can lead to loving empathy. As we begin to feel our comon bond of life with living things around us, our actions become more harmonious in an unforced, natural way, and we become concerned for the needs and wellbeing of all creatures. p. 14

(Cornell, Joseph. Sharing the Joy of Nature: Nature Activities for All Ages. Nevada City, CA: Dawn Publications. 1989.)

What better way is there to start the year 2010 than by revering God's creation.