Each Saturday morning for the last three weeks, a small group of church-goers have been hiking in the wet and wild woods for Rugged Spirituality. Professor Scott Angus is adept at guiding us through the trails and pointing out various geological, historical, and ecological features of each hike. While navigating the terrain, we listen to stories, answer soul-stirring questions, and listen to the voices of nature speak to us.
Our last hike was particularly muddy and wet. At one point many of us asked Scott if were still on the trail or if we missed a turn and were hiking in the creek. As our conversation slowed while we focused on our footing, I was struck by how alive the mud was. It was crawling with worms, frogs, and even a turtle! My son Ahmmit was with us that day and, as an unreserved 5th grader, he picked up all the squishy, slimy things along the way so we could all have a closer look.
As we continue with our worship series, Sacred Earth, Sacred Work, I hope that we might find ways to cultivate our child-like curiosity and reverence for creation. I hope we might develop an eye to see the worm in the mud or the turtle in the grass. I hope we might take the time to listen to their songs and consider their plight in the world that we alter with our action and inaction alike.
Today, I’m reminded of Psalm 148 (reimagined by Nan Merrill) that sings in part:
“Give praise to the Beloved, all the earth,
All that swim in the deep, and all the winged ones in the air!
Give praise all mountains and hills, all trees and all minerals!
Give praise all four-legged and all that creep on the ground!
Leaders of nations and all peoples, young and old, Give praise!
Unite together in all of your diversity, that peace and harmony might flourish on earth!”
May we remember we are bound in shared destiny and that being one another’s keeper includes even the squishy, muddy creatures. What is the song of creation singing to you today?
With Grace and Peace,
Pastor Lauren