Climb the mountains and get their good tidings.
Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees.
The winds will blow their own freshness into you…
while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.-John Muir
This weekend Starr and I had the opportunity to getaway for a church leadership meeting in Ruidoso, NM. (All the pastors, elders, and deacons come to Ruidoso, NM once a year for a special time of refreshing and renewal. Being that I’m new to the church, it was my first time to attend.) I use the word ‘getaway’ because the conference/meeting allowed for many hours of free time. It’s been a great refresher for Starr and I. We found some excellent childcare for the kids back in Lubbock, and being alone for the first time in months we’ve been able to sit and talk for hours, look at the beauty of God’s creation, and spend time getting to know some new friends.
Yesterday we took the 12 mile drive through the Sierra Blanca Mountain range, and I realized how much I am inspired by nature. There were some amazing vistas to behold, and the photos taken do not begin to do the scenery justice. After the hour of looking at the beautiful scenery, I felt as if my soul was full. Gazing on God’s beautiful creation makes me feel close to him. Every time I’ve ever saw something that took my breath away, I would think of Psalm 24:1‑2, Psalm 95:1‑7, and Romans 1:19‑20.
We’ve had a great time, and today we’re headed back to the flatlands of West Texas. Which holds beauty in it’s own special way.
