Gratitude for Creation
Clint Eastman (Massachusetts, USA)





TODAY'S READING
Psalm 96:1-11


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
God made everything and is worthy of our praise.


PRAYER FOCUS
To notice the creative power of God





You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you. - Nehemiah 9:6 (NIV)


One summer afternoon, we drove down the lane to our rural neighborhood. We were surprised at what we saw in the grass by the road: a fox, a turkey, and a deer within 50 feet of one another. In contrast to the fox’s sleek form and shiny red fur, the turkey’s body was out of proportion, and it jerked as it waddled along. Up ahead, the deer high-kicked majestically with its slender legs and long neck.

We were awed by the creative powers of our God. Although the three animals were different in every way, they were made by the same deity. Throughout creation, God’s unique ingenuity is displayed. Yet, we’re often oblivious to it and neglect to praise God for creation. Instead of being apathetic, I want to be more thankful and appreciative.

To accomplish these goals, I look for God’s creative hand all around me — in the eyes of my friends and in the mysteries of God’s universe. Then I make the effort to thank God.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear Lord, open our eyes to your beautiful creation, and put thanksgiving on our lips for the displays of your power. Amen.