Let All Creation Sing!
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord (Psalm 150:6).
When God completed his work of creation he declared everything he made as “very good” (Genesis 1:31). In Psalm 150 every part of God’s creation is exhorted to give him praise.
God never changes. He looks upon the good in his creation, yet acknowledges the evil that exists in the ways mankind has marred his work.
In Hannah Hurnard’s book, Hinds’ Feet on High Places, the heroine, Much-Afraid, is on a journey guided by her loving Shepherd. As she travels, God’s creation is prominent in the lessons she learns as she encounters flowers, waterfalls, rainbows, mountains, and deserts.
My perspective flourishes when I read this book. It handed me lessons that strengthened me before chronic illness became my constant companion. Its messages now go deeper as they help me stay strong whenever new challenges arise. One lesson connects to Psalm 150.
Much-Afraid discovers a single small flower in the desert. It is sustained by keeping its face towards the sun and drinking an occasional drip of water coming from a leak in a pipe. The flower’s name is, “Acceptance-with-Joy”. Unlike mankind, all other creation dwells contentedly in being. Its existence breathes out its praise.
Mankind chooses if he will respond. From a worldly perspective this often is viewed merely through one’s accomplishments. God asks that we be content in him. He looks on each heart’s intent. There is a place and a balance for accomplishments and stillness.
I am not to shy away from tasks he equips me to perform but they do not identify me. He does. I often need renewal in understanding this as there are limitations to what I can now do. I want to accept with joy each season in my life. My Creator asks that I turn my face upward to be nourished by him. Throughout all seasons, there is one constant that remains. I am his. This is my praise and he declares everything that he made as “very good”.
Prayer: Lord, I join in the chorus of your loving creation that praises you with joy! May you delight in the gift of the songs that breathe out our thanksgiving. Amen.
Photo Images: Skagit Valley in Mt. Vernon, Washington
My journey getting the final photo image….
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