This morning I went jogging on a mountain trail I’ve walked since I was a young child. I looked at a stream I used to play in, naming every section based on the fairies or little animals I imagined lived there. I took pictures of ferns I remember turning into fans or roofs of houses for salamanders I played with.

I watch my own girls – 6, 4, and 2 explore my old stomping grounds with glee and wonder at God’s creation. Separated from highways, media, and everyday responsibilities leaves me with lots of room and space to reflect on the intricate patterns of a single leaf or flower and find myself filled with joy as a result.

To hear birds singing and smell the cool mountain breeze – I find myself becoming small again and the world becoming large and friendly – beckoning me to exhale and explore and let my soul be cleansed of heavy burdens.

These are moments when I can reflect and remember what life is really all about – Knowing and Enjoying God.

I am grateful for God’s gift of His Creation, which:

1) Gives ample demonstrations of God’s provision for all the creatures that He has chosen to create; (Matthew 6:25-34).

2) Shows me a beautiful picture of God’s created order and balance; (Colossians 1:17)

3) Invites and beckons me to enter into praise and worship as I “consider all the worlds His hands have made…” (Psalm 148)

4) Stirs creativity in me as I stand, awestruck, at God’s many masterpieces: a beautiful sunset, a pathway dusted with flower petals, a roaring stream teeming with life (Psalm 8).

What do you gain when you engage God through His creation? How do you heal, grow, and recover your childlike wonder and faith?

Whether it’s gathering seashells, swimming in ponds, or planting flowers, don’t let age or busyness stop you from receiving nature’s sweet therapy.

Jump into God’s creation this summer and re-learn what it means to discover and explore once again.

Your soul will thank you for it!