This morning I began my day hiking in the open space near our house. I have to admit that I was out of the house at 8:00 AM only because my 14 year-old son is more energetic than I am. Thanks to his nudge, we had two hours to enjoy the beauty of God's creation before heading out to church. The whole experience was the perfect prelude to corporate worship.

Only in recent years have I begun to experience these precious moments of integration. The physical exertion of the hike awakened my body far better than sitting in a chair as I do most days as a counselor. The quiet, the color, and the textures of nature awakened my mind far better than big box stores, the radio, and driving on I-25. And my spirit was captivated by the Creator's exquisite signature.

Indian Paintbrushes	Yucca

I know that by the time you read this entry, it probably won't be Sunday evening as it now while I blog. Most likely you and I are going to be back at it - pressed and busy. Just remember, however, that the Spirit of Sabbath rest is alive and well within us. I pray that with spiritual eyes we are taken by his beauty.

One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I shall seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to meditate in His temple. Psalm 27:4 (NASV)