He is in the Details
While scanning Facebook a few days ago, I came across an event entitled, Nature Journaling.
The title itself sparked my interest enough to review. Nature Journaling is a method people use
to observe nature and its surroundings in a very in-depth way and write about what they see. It
may sound simple but consider a tree in the middle of the woods. Most people would pass by it
without even noticing, even though they realize the tree is there, they rarely pay it attention.
Nature Journaling allows us to not only look at the tree, but notice the tree’s bark: is it smooth, is
it peeling, how visible are the lenticels and, are it’s ridges deep or replaced by plates or scale-
like texture? Nature Journaling also allows us to identify the bark’s color, enjoy its unique
aroma, and find unusual characteristics I never realized was on a tree.
Nature journaling enhances an individual’s observation skills, strengthens the mind, and among
other things, promotes good mental health. I can see where this could really help the mind and
be good for the spirit.
There is nothing like sitting on the porch in the early hours of the morning, watching the sun rise,
enjoying a hot cup of coffee and listening to the birds. Conversation with God in mind and Spirit
during those moments are valuable, peaceful, and refreshing.
When you open your mind and eyes up to the creation around you, you are analyzing the details
of God’s handy work in the process. While reading about this type of journaling, I could not help
but think about the nature of God. Even the leaves matter to Him. He took the time to create
everything to His liking even in the smallest of details.
I pondered on those thoughts which led me to the think about the detail in His creation of man.
He took the time to create nature with its beauty and detail, how blind do we become to the
details he created within us? Not just our looks, the numbering of each strand of hair on our
heads (as if that’s not enough), but also our journey through life.
His details are in everything. They surround us daily, it is a testament to His love for us, and it
shows how dedicated He was, is, and will always be to His creation. Even after the fall of man
He made a way for all who believe to be able to live with Him for eternity, if we choose, through
the blood of His son, Jesus.
So, when things get rough, and you feel like breaking or even if things are going well… Take a
moment to do some nature journaling of your own. Praise Him in the details of your life and
acknowledge His grace and His mercy through it. He always provides in ways only He can.
And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So do not be afraid; you are worth more
than many sparrows.
Luke 12:7
by Elizabeth Walker